Fake tracking number scam - can I expedite filing a claim?

Question

Brand new seller listed high $$ item for a low price. I knew it could be a scam, but I expect safeguard to be in place between PayPal, eBay and UPS.

Sure enough, he marks the item as shipped, provides a UPS tracking number. The tracking number shows item will be delivered, then was delivered to my city, just not my address. UPS delivery proof shows a random blurred photo of someone's driveway, no package in sight.

I go to "My item did not arrive" on eBay, and the website tells me to sit tight and wait one more day. Is there a way to shortcut to filing a claim right now instead of tomorrow? I am worried that if the sale proceeds are released to the seller eBay and PayPal will make it harder for me to recover my money.

comics-scifi-collectibles · Answer

@atolk Sorry to say but there is not a way to fast track a refund.

Follow these steps>>>>

That sounds VERY frustrating.

1) First, call the postal carrier to see if the tracking number label had your name and address on it.

a) If your name and correct address were on the label, ask the postal carrier to review the GPS on the delivery, retrieve the item from the wrong house, and deliver it to you.

b) If your name and address weren't on that label, ask the postal carrier if they will put this in writing. Also, ask for the weight of the package using that tracking number. Follow the rest of the steps here:

2) Then, report the seller using this process

https://www.ebay.com/help/action?topicid=4022

Important, select "Suspicious seller activity"

then "Other"

Explain that the seller is using fake USPS tracking numbers

Include these phrases

Seller uploaded tracking not associated with my transaction
Tracking details were not accurate
Seller use a false tracking number
Don't write a novel, it's initially being read by a computer, that's why I want you to use those 3 specific phrases in the message.

3) Finally, contact Customer Service and inform them that the seller uploaded a "false tracking number" on your purchase. Request a refund.

Use the Customer Service that is on social media this way:

https://www.instagram.com/ebay/

Just send a private message to the page. Explain you have a fake or false tracking number situation.

If the above steps do not result in a refund then you will have to pursue a chargeback with your funding source ( bank, credit card, etc) . Once you ask your funding source to step in eBay can no longer assist you.