Abstract: A computer program product is provided. The computer program product includes a computer useable medium having a computer readable program. The computer readable program when executed on a computer causes the computer to receive first customization request data and second customization request data for a virtual object to be purchased by a user in a virtual world computing environment. Further, the computer readable program when executed on a computer causes the computer to encode the first customization request data and the second customization request data into a value. In addition, the computer readable program when executed on a computer causes the computer to invoke an instantiation of the virtual object such that the virtual object has a customizable component.

Abstract: Potential bidding errors may be detected using a computer-implemented method comprising receiving a proposed bid for an auction item, the auction item having a current bid and a minimum bid increment, the proposed bid being greater than the sum of the current bid and the minimum bid increment. The method then determines a threshold value, the threshold value being greater than the sum of the current bid and a minimum bid increment. When the proposed bid is greater than the threshold value, then the method validates the proposed bid using the current bid and the proposed bid to provide a validation result. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.