Buyer is trying to return an item that’s not mine

[219kay]

A buyer filed a claim to return an item because they said it was broken when they received it.  When I looked closely at the photo I noticed it was definitely not the item I sold or sent them.  I tried to explain this to them.  I sent them photos of both the item they are filing the claim on and the item I sent them.  I pointed out the obvious differences.  No response from them and they still want me to accept a return.  I’m wondering if this is something they do on a regular basis...ask seller for refund and then seller files a claim with USPS.  I explained to them it would be easy for me to file a claim but that I refuse to fraudulently cheat the Government.  Traditionally it has been my experience that EBay always rules in favor of the buyer.  I’m sure this is what my buyer is banking on.  Notice the item I sold them has flowers on the arms.  The broken item does not.  Any advice?

[stuff_from_dylan · Accepted solution]

@219kay 

Yes. Remind them that mail fraud is a federal crime. If that didn't scare them away and they still demand to return the item, accept the return, and if you get back the fake chair, file a police report and call eBay and explained what happened. Also, be sure that they didn't buy that chair from another seller and confused you with them.

Also, just an FYI, Priority Mail comes with insurance.

[wastingtime101]

They're using your inventory to replace an item they broke. The ol' buyer switcheroo.

Report them to eBay for filing a fraudulent return.

[aldente28]

You can accept the return, in which case the item will be shipped to you and you can refund as appropriate. Or you can deny the return, and ebay will refund the buyer and not require them to ship it to you. In either case, report the buyer to ebay.

If it were me, I would accept the return, refund 50% if they return the wrong item, then gather all the evidence of fraud and contact the police and the postal inspector. I would even see if I could get the buyer to admit what he/she is doing. Ebay won't care, but law enforcement will. If law enforcement concludes fraud occurred, you can submit an appeal to ebay and send the police report(s). My impression is that your chances of getting your money back in that situation is fairly good.

Also - this is horrible and I'm sorry it happened to you. And for 30 bucks? Is that the price of the item? I'm not inclined to commit fraud, but I sure as heck wouldn't do it for $30. Smh.