They would have to record all bids, whether or not they exceed the current auction amount, in order to fairly re-evaluate the auction without the winning bidder. Even then, to subvert that system would only need one extra shill to bracket the victim.

Right now they give the seller, and their own bottom line, the benefit of the doubt.


The only way to stop shilling is to make it cost more than it brings in, and I'm sure eBay has no interest in putting burdens on bidders. Imagine if they required bid amounts be put in escrow and payment and fees would be immediately rendered at the end of the auction, shill or not.

Personally, I think blind auctions would be fun. No information is shared until the end of the auction, sort of what sniping crudely accomplishes.