Safe to buy ATV on eBay?

[Aussie Mitch]

Hi, there are some apparent savings by buying Gen 4's on eBay; however, is it safe to do so? What I mean, is there any danger some malicious jailbreak could cause havoc? I'm just suspicious when prices seem too good to be true, even though the seller's history and reviews seem legit.
Thanks,

 

[Tech198]

Probably......... best to get from Apple Store... or from other stores which have discounts.

However I got Apple TV (3rd gen from eBay) and it's ok...... Still,, if a price is too good to be true, then that's probably a sign to stay clear..

 

[Rigby]

If you are concerned about malicious firmware modifications, you can always restore the ATV, which includes flashing an original Apple firmware:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203028

You just need a computer with iTunes and a USB-C cable.

 

[radioisotope]

Its just as safe as buying anything else from eBay. Just make sure to read and reread the description of what you're buying.

 

[mmomega]

Anything I purchase from any source and the item was previously used, I will do a complete format/restore.

For only two reasons really.
To wipe out anything the previous owner may have done. Regardless of what that is.
And this gives me as close to brand new experience (in it operating) as it can be.


I don't automatically think anyone has maliciously done anything. Just with computer equipment, if it can be 'tinkered' with. Someone probably has. They may have tweaked the UI, or network settings, or added apps or programs they may think I want to help sell the device.
I don't want any of that eprsonally. Just give me the hardware and let me start fresh with it.

Just my advice.