Return Fraud

[palesa_0]

Beware of classic  "return fraud" where a buyer tries to keep both the item and their money. Since eBay has already asked the buyer to return the item, you're in a tough spot, but there are still steps you can take to fight this.

Immediate Actions:

1. Contact eBay Again (Escalate the Case)

   • Go to "Help & Contact" on eBay and look for "Appeal a Case" or "Report a Buyer" (depending on your account type).
   • Call eBay customer service directly. It's harder for them to ignore you over the phone.
   • If eBay chat is available, use it to get instant escalation.

2. Refuse to Accept the Return

   • If the buyer is forced to return the item but they send back something damaged or different, do not accept delivery.
   • If it's left at your door, take an unopened package photo as proof that you never accepted it.

3. Gather Evidence

   • Compare your original listing photos with the buyer's "damage" photos.
   • If your photos have unique details (serial numbers, markings, or a specific pattern in the print), point them out.
   • If you have the shipping weight from the label, compare it to what the buyer is returning. If different, that’s proof of fraud.
   • Check the tracking number: If they send something back, inspect its weight and origin.

Filing Complaints

1. Report the Buyer for Fraud

   • Go to "Report a Buyer" on eBay (link here)
   • Include all evidence that the buyer provided false claims and is returning a different item.

2. File a Complaint with PayPal (if used)

   • If the transaction went through PayPal, dispute the charge with them separately. PayPal often rules in favor of sellers if fraud is evident.

3. Report to IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center)

   • If the value of the print is significant, report this fraud to the FBI’s IC3 (www.ic3.gov).
   • This adds pressure on eBay to respond properly.

Return Fraud and Preventing Scams

• Watermark your listing photos in the future with unique identifiers.
• Video record packing and shipping for expensive items.
• Block the buyer from future purchases.

Final Note:

If eBay refuses to cooperate and forces a refund, consider small claims court if the item is valuable enough. Sometimes, simply mentioning legal action can make eBay take you more seriously.

[soh.maryl]

No longer a seller.  When I was a seller, had very few returns.  When a buyer opened an NAD case, sent a prepaid return label.  Knew I was not required to refund until I received the returned item.  So you're saying the process has changed.  In what way? 

[house*of*paws]

Hi @palesa_0 

I don’t think you’re the best person to be giving policy advice.  You’ve received THREE negative feedbacks in the past month … from three DIFFERENT  buyers … for what look to be clear policy violations.  

You aren’t likely to be permitted to sell here much longer if you continue to make up your own rules for selling and accepting returns.  

As it is now, honest buyers are likely to be afraid of buying from you after reading your feedback.  Please reconsider what you’re doing.

[albertabrightalberta]

Good catch @house*of*paws !

ETA: @palesa_0 

It's not just the most recent unhappy buyers you've canceled on, presumably for not understanding the "auction process." Based on your comments left for several other buyers within the last 6 months, this has happened several times. 

You're expected to have read and understood ebay policy before listing and selling your items.

[mtgraves7984]

Return Fraud

@palesa_0 

I think you have more of a problem with cancellations.

[kensgiftshop]

Why would you be in a tough spot?

If buyer doesn't return item, they don't get a refund.