I tried buying a second-hand item online, but instead, I received a box of trash. The website holds payment until I confirm receipt, so I was able to avoid confirming the delivery right away. The seller, however, started sending me aggressive messages asking, ‘WHERE IS MY MONEY?’ Then the tone changed, and they claimed to have sent the wrong box. They asked me for my personal details to send the correct item. After I opened a claim with the website, they insisted I return the box, offering to cover the shipping costs but asking for my bank details to transfer the money for the shipping. I’m worried they could use my info for something shady. How should I handle this situation?
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Tell eBay the item was not what you ordered. Follow eBay’s instructions and don’t listen to the scammer. If you return the box, the seller won’t refund the shipping, and they might claim not to have received it. Stick to the platform’s instructions.
@Scamguru
I’ve filed a complaint but haven’t gotten any response yet.
Lydia said:
@Scamguru
I’ve filed a complaint but haven’t gotten any response yet.
Did you file an Item Not As Described report?
If you did, eBay usually sides with the buyer. The seller will have to send you a return label, and if they don’t, the case should be closed in your favor.
@esleystanley
It wasn’t even an item, just a box of cut-up plastic pieces. I think they just used them to add weight to the box and make it seem like the item was heavier. If the seller sends me a return label, I’ll use it, but I’m not giving him my email or address. I’m definitely not giving him any personal info. Honestly, why should I have to deal with this at all? I just want my money back and to be done with this scammer.
@Lydia
All communication should stay on eBay. Never give them any personal details beyond what eBay requires.
It’s possible that the scammer will just refund you without needing the return, since sending you a label costs them money.
@Lydia
Reporting ‘Item Not As Described’ is important because it shows that the seller sent ‘something,’ even if it’s not what you ordered. If you claim you never received it, they might show proof of shipment with tracking, which could complicate your case.
@Lydia
Don’t talk to him directly, especially outside of eBay. Handle everything within eBay’s resolution center.
Never go off-platform. Don’t give the seller any of your personal info. They’ll probably try to intimidate you with threats. Let eBay handle the situation. If they don’t, consider filing a dispute with your credit card.
@SavvyGenX
Exactly! If the seller is genuinely offering a refund, it should all happen through the platform. Don’t give out your bank details. I highly doubt they’ll transfer money directly.
What website did you buy from? Was it eBay?
John said:
What website did you buy from? Was it eBay?
Yes, it was eBay.
John said:
What website did you buy from? Was it eBay?
Yes, it was eBay.
Make sure to send eBay a picture of the contents. Don’t let this scammer get away with it. They’ll keep scamming others if they succeed.
@cora
I’d suggest you also send photos of the shipping label to eBay. This will help with proof. And only deal with eBay, not the scammer directly.
Jonny said:
@cora
I’d suggest you also send photos of the shipping label to eBay. This will help with proof. And only deal with eBay, not the scammer directly.
I did send the photos, but still no response from eBay. I also filed a police report, though I’m not sure if they’ll take action because the value isn’t high. Still, I figured it was worth documenting.
@cora
I sent everything, but eBay hasn’t replied, and my money is still gone.
Lydia said:
@cora
I sent everything, but eBay hasn’t replied, and my money is still gone.
Send the return label like someone suggested earlier. You should also call eBay. They might escalate the case to speak with you directly. I’ve been ripped off by eBay as a seller, so I understand the frustration. Hopefully, they’ll sort this out for you.
John said:
What website did you buy from? Was it eBay?
Yes, it was eBay.
Deal only with eBay, not the scammer. If you start talking to the scammer, you’ll likely get scammed.
@ScamVictimSupport
I’ve already requested help from eBay, but there’s been no response, and I’m getting close to the end of the 14-day complaint period.