1. Whenever possible, try to buy from a UACC Registered Dealer. This will ensure that you are buying from someone with many years experience and expertise in autographs and who also has agreed to be bound by the trading ethics of this organisation. It will also allow you some redress if you feel that you have been dealt with improperly or unfairly.

2. Do not buy from ebay sellers without feedback or who have Private ID or private bidder information.

3. Remember, a COA (Certificate of Authenticity) is only as valid as the reputation and experience of the dealer by whom it is issued.

4. Be extremely careful when buying through an internet auction. Remember the maxim, "If it looks too good to be true, then it probably is!" Everyone is aware of the value of autographs now and professional dealers are always on the lookout for items to add to their stock. Consequently, there are very few 'bargains' to be had, either for collectors or dealers!

5. If you are an inexperienced collector, do not buy from sources such as ebay. Rather pay a little more and visit the recognised experts

6.Some autograph websites and internet auction sites that we have seen appear to have an inordinate amount of what we consider 'very difficult' ('almost impossible') signed items in their stock. Be suspicious of multi-signed photographs or posters of the very latest 'blockbuster' releases as it would be highly unlikely that these are genuine.