Would you tell me please if it is against the rules to bid against the bidder

[emtdickson]

I bid on an item - a used heater - and was the only bidder.  I lost it at the last minute and the price was £1 above mine.  The other bidder's identity was private.  I think they were hoping I was still at the computer when the auction ended, and would bid higher, because I had messaged the seller 30 minutes before the end, but had to leave the desk.  I suppose I would have bid higher had I stayed.

The same item was immediately listed again at a higher start price by the same seller.  There is a spelling mistake the same as before.  I sent a message asking if they had bid against me and relisted.  I doubt I will get a reply.

They could have withdrawn the item and that would be acceptable.  

[john1297576 · Accepted solution]

If you suspect the seller of Shill Bidding, then avoid. If he is hoping to bid you up, then don't play his game!

Watch perhaps and then bid as close to the end as you can or use a sniping tool. If you then win, seller then either honours the sale or not, but if he does not honour at least you can then leave Negative feedback, and depending on how he refunds it will cost him at least the Paypal fees.