<p>An IP address is like your “digital footprint” on the Internet, and if desired, it can be used for more than just tracking your activity. For example, using an IP address, scammers can determine your approximate location. Although an IP by itself does not allow direct penetration of your computer, it can become part of a scheme if, for example, you stumble upon a fraudulent site. One method of protection is to use a VPN, which hides your IP. There are many online resources on how to spot ebay scams and the IP address can play a role here, because scammers sometimes use them to build fake schemes.</p>