Can a buyer upload fake return tracking number?

[fryeguy211]

I have a have a buyer who requested a return a few hours after delivery.  I accepted the return and had Ebay provided them with a return label.   The next day Ebay notifies me that the item has been shipped.  Problem is the USPS tracking / delivery confirmation number that was listed can't be found when I look it up.  I'm wondering if the buyer is trying to scam me by uploading a fake tracking number to make it look like they shipped the item instead of using the return label provided to them.

Is this possible?  The buyer has a history of leaving negative feedback claiming they haven't received items, etc.  I plan on calling Ebay to see what the tracking number is on the return label that was provided to them to see if it matches.

[alseyf-73]

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@fryeguy211 wrote:

I'm wondering if the buyer is trying to scam me by uploading a fake tracking number to make it look like they shipped the item instead of using the return label provided to them.

To what end? If the fake tracking number is never delivered @fryeguy211 how will the buyer get a refund?

[arun7500]

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@alseyf-73 wrote:

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@fryeguy211 wrote:

I'm wondering if the buyer is trying to scam me by uploading a fake tracking number to make it look like they shipped the item instead of using the return label provided to them.

To what end? If the fake tracking number is never delivered @fryeguy211 how will the buyer get a refund?

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Chinese sellers routinely provide faux tracking numbers, making buyers wait months, and hopefully past the filing deadline. The buyer can return using a faux tracking number, after a week they simply check the box asking eBay to step in. BOTs award a full refund. There are no people involved here, this isn't how this stuff works.