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New SELLER SCAM
Has anybody else experienced the new scam where you purchased something and you don’t receive it, but the tracking number shows that it’s been received because The scammer sent an empty envelope to an address in your same ZIP Code and eBay doesn’t verify the complete address when you report it as not received it only verifies the ZIP Code?!
haroldthepug2003
Posted Aug 8, 2026 at 1:33 AM · Edited Aug 8, 2026 at 1:33 AM·Last reply Aug 8, 2026 at 3:25 AM
1 comment
eastlaneave
MentorAug 8, 2026 at 3:25 AM@haroldthepug2003
I'm sorry that happened.
1) First, call the post office to see if the tracking number label contained your name and your address. (They won't tell you whose name is on the package, only that your name and address is not.)
a) If your name and correct address were on the label, ask the Post Officeto 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 Post Office if they will put this in writing; it's helpful, but not required. Also, ask for the weight of the package using that tracking number. Follow the rest of the steps starting with 2 below:
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 tracking numbers
Include these phrases
Seller uploaded tracking not associated with my transaction
Tracking details were not accurate
Seller used 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. Share any documentation you gathered. Request a refund.
Use the Customer Service that is on Instagram this way:
- https://www.instagram.com/ebay/
Send a private direct message to the page. Explain you have a fake or false tracking number situation.
Let me know how this goes, I've been burned a few times myself (including on Amazon), but I have been able to get a refund following this process.
There are additional steps to take if the above isn't effective, just come back and update me.