The simplest answer is buyer beware.
Use a bank that protects online purchases, and use PayPal or BidPay to wire money from that account.
Be suspicious of everyone, especially those who do not use the above services.
Check out feedback when using eBay! If purchasing from someone on one of these bulletin boards, do so from reputable users (there's alot of regulars with thousands of posts who aren't likely to tarnish their name in the community by screwing others over).
And in my personal opinion, an international wire transfer is the WORST way to buy something. Even worse than mailing cash! Not only can you lose the money, but you had to PAY to lose it! I wouldn't even do it when having trouble with my bank card (subsequently rectified) trying to purchase a Mediator from elbox... and that's a reputable company, not an individual.
