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PayPal is about convenience, not security. Like anything else on Ebay, it's up to YOU to do the due diligence on a seller or buyer.
I agree that PayPal is misleading and has ridiculous terms and the worst customer service around. But I use PayPal for small transactions all the time. It's so much easier than sending a $20 check, or going to the supermarket and buying a $20 money order. However, just like sending a check or money order to a seller who requires pre-payment, never send more than you can afford to lose. Don't throw a temper tantrum if you send some mook your money and get nothing in return--there are no guarantees.
If you're very concerned about a high value transaction, there are several on-line escrow services that you can use.
Don't slam the concept--it works great within an appropriate domain. Think about the fees they would have to charge if they had a huge call center which answered the phone on the first ring and if they instantly refunded your money the same day you filed a dispute. "You get what you pay for" applies here (as it seems to in most situations).
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