This was not a tactic that any true sniper would have advocated before this year.
However, eBay has changed the rules. All bidders are now anonymous.
Consequently you can go in and "nibble" and not be noticed.
To what point? Well suppose you see something you genuinely can't judge where the current price level is. Something very unsual where there is no price history.
A few "nibbles" in closely judged steps will indicate where the existing bid level is and enable you to pitch the value of your snipe accordingly.
e.g. Last week I was totally unable guess where to pitch my bid as I had never seen this item before - certainly not on a US or UK auction. A few "nibbles" soon established current bidding peaked at about 7 Euros, so I knew around a snipe of around €20 stood a chance. If it had peaked at €15, I'd have entered a bid around €40.
Agreed it cuts against the snipers Rule Book - don't show any interest because it attracts others.
What do you think?
Paul
Original Post
If you're only prepared to pay €10 and it goes for €15, then that's life, someone else wanted it more than you.