Just keep in mind the trend here. People are talking about specialty items like cameras, and I have sold some expensive computer parts as well without issues; nor anybody questioning my integrity.
Where the greater risk comes in (IMO) is when you have consumer electronics involved; things that not only geeks might be willing to buy but also things that your average consumer would also want; like TVs, game consoles, etc. A buddy was recently looking at buying an Xbox from eBay. He sent me no fewer than 10 auctions which had them at good prices; and all of them I veto'd the purchase. (Because it was my eBay account.)
First one was for broken Xbox's- likely ones Photon sent back. Description had that in fine print that they were broken, and "likely an easy repair."
Next one had shady feedback. Using one of my
feedback tools I was able to sort through all the negs, neutrals, and "mutually withdrawn" to see there was a patern of cheap components, knock offs, etc.
Then there's the ever popular "Send us $100 and we'll send you the name of a distributor where you can buy the item for 1/2 the retail price." Except the shipping brings it back close to retail, or they don't ship to Canada, or you end up getting refurbished item from now a 3rd party.
So, my summary is if it's a big ticket item that your parents would have no clue how to operate it; then better chance of it being OK.