I've posted before in this forum my concerns about private auctions on eBay. With the new rules that partly hide the bidder's identity, some of the old reasons for private auctions are no longer valid. I still have the same policy for my own bidding. I usually don't bid on private auctions because of my personal concerns that there is something to hide.
Wes just asked for opinions and stated a concern. That is always welcome on this forum. It is the way we help one another. Sharing expertise and experience builds a knowledgeable community.
