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🚨 NEW SCAM ALERT: Counterfeit Golf Equipment via eBay & Freight Forwarder Traps 🚨
Summary: abbche30 alerts the community about a new scam involving counterfeit golf equipment being sold on eBay through freight forwarders. The scam involves sellers with high ratings listing popular items that turn out to be counterfeits. When buyers attempt returns, they face challenges due to the shipping setup, allowing the scammers to benefit. abbche30 advises on how to spot these scams and navigate eBay's system to secure a refund, recommending direct contact with eBay for Business using legal references to expedite the process. They urge buyers to remain cautious and informed when purchasing golf gear online.
🚨 NEW SCAM ALERT: Counterfeit Golf Equipment via eBay & Freight Forwarder Traps 🚨
If you buy golf gear on eBay—especially through U.S. freight forwarders or international shipping—be aware of a sophisticated counterfeit scam currently circulating on the platform.
Here is a breakdown of how this scam operates and how to protect yourself:
1. The Fraudulent Setup
Deceptive Seller Profile: Sellers set up accounts with high overall ratings (e.g., 98%+ positive feedback) accumulated from selling cheap, low-value non-golf items.
Fake Premium Inventory: They list hot-ticket items like L.A.B. Golf DF3 putters, TaylorMade Spider ZT putters, TaylorMade P790 irons, and Selkirk pickleball paddles.
Zero Authentication: Items shipped are full 1:1 knockoffs made in China (blank unweighted sole screws, fake shafts, knockoff grips/headcovers, missing original packaging, and duplicate or invalid serial numbers).
2. The Freight Forwarder / USPS Return Trap
When buyers discover the item is counterfeit and initiate an eBay return, the automated system generates a USPS Drop-Off Return Label.
The Catch: If your item is at a US freight forwarder (or if you are using an overseas warehouse service), most forwarders ONLY accept carrier pickups (UPS / FedEx) and will NOT send staff to a physical USPS post office to drop off packages.
The scammer counts on the return window expiring while you are stuck in an automated support loop, forcing eBay to auto-close the case in the seller's favor.
3. The Legal Weapon: 18 U.S.C. § 2320
Under U.S. Federal Law (18 U.S. Code § 2320) and postal carrier policies, it is illegal to transport, ship, or mail counterfeit trademarked goods.
Freight forwarders and logistics companies are legally prohibited from shipping known counterfeit goods.
🔍 Red-Flag Seller Warning & Buyer Defense
Documented Scam Account: Watch out for seller—their recent feedback is filled with complaints regarding counterfeit TaylorMade irons, fake Spider putters, fake LAB DF3 putters, and fake Selkirk paddles.
Always Filter Feedback: Do not rely on the overall positive percentage. Filter feedback by "Past Month" or "Past 6 Months" and search for keywords like "fake", "replica", "knockoff", or "serial number does not exist".
How to Bypass the Bot Loop: If you get stuck in eBay’s endless automated return loop, do not rely on the standard "Help" page. Message
eBay for Businessdirectly on Facebook. State that the item is counterfeit and cite 18 U.S.C. § 2320 to request a manual escalation and a full refund without return.
Stay vigilant and protect your money! Share this with anyone who frequently buys golf gear on secondary markets.
eastlaneave
MentorAug 16, 2026 at 1:17 PM@abbche30
I am sorry if you've received an item that was not as described.
1) Your tips about examining feedback are excellent, and I highly recommend that all buyers use those tips.
2) eBay for Business on Facebook doesn't exist anymore. Work through regular Customer Service.
3) Anything purchased through a Freight Forwarder doesn't qualify for eBay’s Money Back Guarantee https://www.ebay.com/help/policies/ebay-money-back-guarantee-policy/ebay-money-back-guarantee-policy?id=4210
Not covered:
The buyer used third-party freight forwarding or mail redirection
4) If you want protection for items not as described & items not received, please buy from a seller using eBay International Shipping.