eBay shuts down virtual auctions

eBay is clamping down on the sale/auction of items, cash, characters and accounts from virtual gaming worlds.

According to a report on Slashdot.org, the action has been taken due to the legal complexities - i.e. property rights issues - that surround such items. Speaking to the website, eBay spokesperson Hani Durzy estimated the company has been removing offending auctions for just over a month. The move is actually a reinforcement of existing eBay policy rather than a new operation.

eBay is giving auctioneers the benefit of the doubt with initial auctions and will simply de-list items and apparently try to educate sellers on the company's policy in regard to the auction of virtual world property. Persistent offenders however will find their eBay accounts removed.

via cvg