A word of caution

[Chicago206]

The thread starter is absolutely correct! However, sending paypal "gift" is NO DIFFERENT than sending a USPS money order, or a personal check, or a certified bank check, or cash. There is little to zero recourse with any of those options either. It all comes down to trust as the OP has stated...but thats with almost any aspect of any deal not specific to "paypal gift". Just my 2 cents.

[Jim VB]

Originally Posted by Chicago206

The thread starter is absolutely correct! However, sending paypal "gift" is NO DIFFERENT than sending a USPS money order, or a personal check, or a certified bank check, or cash. There is little to zero recourse with any of those options either. It all comes down to trust as the OP has stated...but thats with almost any aspect of any deal not specific to "paypal gift". Just my 2 cents.

I believe USPS money orders offer some protection, depending upon how bad the deal goes. They may be a nightmare to navigate, but Federal Postal Fraud Laws are kind of important.

But you're right. If a seller wants to rip people off, they always can find a way.

[Chicago206]

Originally Posted by Jim VB

I believe USPS money orders offer some protection, depending upon how bad the deal goes. They may be a nightmare to navigate, but Federal Postal Fraud Laws are kind of important.

But you're right. If a seller wants to rip people off, they always can find a way.

Yes, Federal postal fraud IS a serious issue. But if I sell you an item, and you send me a USPS money order for $500. And I send you nothing in return, it would be nearly impossible to prove that you got nothing. I could very easily say I sent out your item in a plain white envelope, I have no idea what happened! At least with regular paypal, they will immediately side with the buyer and place all the burden of proof on the seller. This opens a whole new can of worms for scam artist buyers though!