eBay now requiring item photo as part of return.

[maxi314]

The assumption that everyone has a device to take photographs is wrong, and this new demand stops the Return Request in its tracks.  And, finding "direct  contact" with eBay is extremely difficult.

[lamber9347]

When you make a purchase online then you have to expect to return it using an online process. If this were an in-person retail establishment, then you wouldn't balk at the request. You chose to purchase online, your choice not to own a mobile phone, in 2022, places you at a disadvantage to life in general. Best of luck to you.... 

[alcoforever]

Where are you reading that a photo is required for a return?

[maxi314]

It is not my choice not to own a mobile phone or other device.  You probably could have been more condescending, but it was sufficiently so.

[maxi314]

Thank you.  In the Return request.  It used to be option to enter a photo, but now it is a demand that stops proceeding with the return process, so that the Confirm Return button is not "live."

[buyselljack2016]

Now seems to be randomly required to provide a photo.  Some past posts have been made.  As usual, likely no rhyme, nor reason as to which require, and which do not. (eBay secret to protect eBay/sellers)

[buyselljack2016]

I have no mobile phone. How will I ever exist?

[Anonymous · Accepted solution]

In the absence of returning an item in person, how else do you expect to convey condition or support your claim?

[soh.maryl]

Usually, I find your replies here to be spot on, but will have to disagree with you about this.

The person who said you seemed condescending was right, although I don't believe you meant it to be.

I, too, do not have a cell phone (by choice) nor do I have a digital camera.  I remarked on the Boards quite awhile back that I guess, if I receive something not as described, I'll just have to keep it.

BTW, haven't yet had any occurrence where my lack of a cell phone and its accompanying cost has placed me at a disadvantage in life in general.  When/if that does occur, you can be sure I will report it somewhere.

[maxi314]

I did not click Accept as Solution.  And, when the item is back with the Seller, the Seller would test and see that the item does not work.

[alcoforever]

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@buyselljack2016 wrote:

Now seems to be randomly required to provide a photo.  Some past posts have been made.  As usual, likely no rhyme, nor reason as to which require, and which do not. (eBay secret to protect eBay/sellers)

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Maybe ebay thinks this will protect sellers but I sure don't see how.

If I were a scammer and was going to pull the switcheroo scam, I would just take a picture of the item I received and then send back my unwashed laundry.   Seller then complains about getting dirty laundry and it becomes a typical he said-she said dispute.   And we know ebay always sides with the buyer on those.

Another thought on this issue:   ebay should have announced this change.   To spring the photo requirement on an unsuspecting buyer is just not right.

[animesalesandmore]

It seems more about a scam issue... To me I wish that it is require to take picture of the item at the post office or  before handing it to the post workers before it is taped up so I don't end up with a pile of rocks or someone trash.

[alcoforever]

Perhaps you have a friend or relative with either a smart phone or a digital camera you could borrow?   Another possibility is if you have a printer/scanner?

Ebay should have announced this change.   Springing it on an unsuspecting buyer is just not right.

[maxi314]

Thank you.  I was surprised.  I do have a digital camera, but need to recharge the batteries.  I will send a thousand photos.  It's reasonable to request photos, even as they can be manipulated - easily manipulated.  The description of the problem counts more, in my opinion, as would the Seller's examination of the returned item.  

[soh.maryl]

Trust me -- it wouldn't help.