Fake tracking scam

Question

I am a victim of a fake tracking scam where the seller used a UPS/Amazon tracking number for a different recipient in my zip code.

I am unable to contact a human at ebay and the automated agent just refers to the "delivered" status and won't go any further.

I am unable to get UPS to provide written confirmation that the package was delivered to an address that was not mine.

How do I contact eBay directly to file a complaint and request a refund?

I am reluctant to file a dispute with my CC and get sideways with eBay - it is clearly an issue they must be aware of, so I am hoping there is a simple way to resolve

Thanks,

Chris

jayhawkcapn · Answer

@eburtonlab thank you for your reply and advice. Much appreciated. I am trying the 1-2-3 approach - currently on #2. Cheers, Chris

eburtonlab · Answer

@jayhawkcapn

Ordinarily I would suggest contacting eBay via social media direct message, but eBay is shutting down the social media team, apparently. Instagram is still going at the moment, so if you can get documentation from the shipping service that the tracking number is not associated with your name and address, you may be able to contact eBay via Instagram direct message, mention false tracking, and get a chance to submit your documentation.

If you cannot get documentation or if that does not work:

Since false tracking allows a scam seller to win an "item not received" case, the next step would be to file a "not as described" return on eBay and be prepared to return exactly what you received if the seller provides for return shipping, or ask eBay to step in after three business days if the seller does not refund you or provide return shipping.

You may be able to get a refund from your payment provider, but be sure you mention "false tracking", otherwise the provider is likely to treat it as a standard "item not received" case and defer to eBay's ruling about delivery.

In the future, stick to experienced sellers with a long history and avoid new or unproven sellers, or sellers that show warning signs of being a potential scammer: drastic changes in selling behavior or offering deals that are "too good to be true".