I think your assumption that more time was allowed to get higher bids is probably right. But there is no question that any computer system could have problems. Hackers and just plain volume have caused serious problems at eBay at certain times in the past. They spent tons of $$ strengthening their hardware and software to stand up to the challenge. Be sure to read the auctioneer's disclaimer about outages and other problems. The practice of moving a closing time and date should be a known factor before bidding starts.
It would be irresponsible to allow a virus to get into a commercial Web server, but it is remotely possible. More likely, if a virus was involved, it would probably be on the computer that the auctioneer uses to open email rather than the server. If it is the same machine as the server or on a local network with the server where a virus can be spread, shame on them.
Bottom line is I would recommend staying away from this auctioneer because of sloppy or downright deceptive practices.
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Oldgas
Your host and moderator
