eBay Scam Prevention Guide: How Sellers Can Protect Themselves 2026

Selling on eBay can be incredibly profitable, but it also comes with risks that every seller must understand. In 2025, eBay processed over 1.9 billion transactions, and while the vast majority were legitimate, thousands of sellers fell victim to sophisticated scams that cost them merchandise, money, and countless hours of stress.

The reality is harsh: scammers are getting smarter. They exploit eBay’s buyer-friendly policies, manipulate the returns system, and use social engineering tactics that can fool even experienced sellers. Whether you’re selling vintage collectibles, electronics, or designer items, understanding how these scams work is your first line of defense.

This comprehensive guide covers the most common eBay scams targeting sellers in 2026, the red flags that signal trouble, and proven strategies to protect your business. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and tools to sell confidently while minimizing your risk exposure.

The Current eBay Scam Landscape (2026)

The e-commerce fraud landscape has evolved dramatically over the past few years. According to recent industry reports, online marketplace fraud increased by 23% in 2025, with eBay remaining a prime target due to its size and diverse seller base. Scammers have moved beyond simple tactics, now employing multi-step schemes that exploit every loophole in marketplace protection systems.

Who’s Being Targeted?

While any seller can become a victim, certain profiles attract more scammer attention:

• New sellers with limited feedback and unfamiliarity with platform policies
• High-value item sellers dealing in electronics, jewelry, designer goods, and collectibles
• Sellers with generous return policies who may not verify return contents thoroughly
• Part-time sellers who may not monitor transactions as closely as full-time businesses
• International sellers who face additional complications with cross-border disputes

The Most Common Scams in 2026

The scam landscape has shifted toward more sophisticated approaches. “Item Not As Described” (INAD) fraud has overtaken “Item Not Received” (INR) claims as the primary threat, as scammers realize they can manipulate the returns system to receive refunds while keeping merchandise or returning worthless items.

Payment scams have also evolved. With eBay’s managed payments now standard, traditional PayPal scams have decreased, but new schemes involving fake eBay notifications, off-platform payment requests, and elaborate phishing campaigns have taken their place.

The financial impact is significant. Industry estimates suggest that marketplace sellers lose between $1,500 and $5,000 annually to fraud, with high-volume sellers facing even greater exposure. Beyond direct losses, there’s the time cost of disputes, the stress of dealing with bad actors, and potential account health impacts from unresolved cases.

Top 10 eBay Scams Targeting Sellers

1. “Item Not Received” (INR) Scam

How It Works:

The buyer purchases your item, you ship it with tracking, and the package shows delivered. Despite this, the buyer opens an “Item Not Received” case claiming they never got the package. They may allege the item was stolen, delivered to the wrong address, or that the tracking information is fraudulent.

Common Tactics:

• Requesting shipping to an address different from their registered address
• Claiming the package was delivered but empty or containing something else
• Alleging signature was forged or obtained under false pretenses
• Using addresses known for package theft or claiming mail room confusion at apartment complexes

Red Flags:

• New accounts with zero or minimal feedback
• Requests to ship to “friend’s address” or “work address”
• Multiple messages about delivery timeline before purchase
• Buyer located in high-fraud zip codes (certain urban areas have statistically higher fraud rates)

Prevention:

• Always use tracking with signature confirmation for items over $100
• Ship only to the address on the eBay transaction—never to alternate addresses
• Photograph the packaging process and shipping label
• For high-value items, require adult signature delivery
• Consider insurance for items over your comfortable loss threshold

2. “Item Not As Described” (INAD) Return Fraud

How It Works:

This is currently the most damaging scam for sellers. The buyer receives your item, then opens an INAD case claiming the item doesn’t match the listing description. They may return a different (often worthless) item, a used version of what you sent, damaged goods, or an empty box. Because INAD claims favor buyers, you often end up refunding them while receiving worthless returns.

The “Switcharoo” Variation:

The buyer purchases a new graphics card, receives it, then returns their old broken card in the same packaging. Since the model numbers may match externally, sellers don’t always notice until they try to test or resell the item.

The “Empty Box” Variation:

The buyer claims INAD, returns an empty box or box filled with weights to match the original shipping weight, and receives their refund. By the time you open the return, it’s your word against theirs.

Red Flags:

• Buyers who ask extremely specific questions about model numbers, serial numbers, or specifications
• Accounts with history of high return rates (check feedback)
• Messages immediately after delivery expressing vague “disappointment”
• Requests for partial refunds before opening official cases

Prevention:

• Photograph and video-record serial numbers, unique identifiers, and condition before shipping
• Use tamper-evident packaging seals
• Document the exact weight of the package (item + packaging)
• Record yourself packing and sealing the item with the shipping label visible
• For electronics, note serial numbers in the listing itself
• Consider hidden marking strategies (UV pen marks in specific locations)

3. Address Change Scam

How It Works:

The buyer completes the purchase with their verified address, then immediately contacts you requesting the item be shipped to a different address. This request may come through eBay messages, direct email, or even phone calls. If you comply, you lose eBay’s seller protection because you shipped to an address different from the one on the transaction.

Common Excuses:

• “I’m moving this week—can you send it to my new place?”
• “I’ll be traveling—please send to my hotel/vacation address”
• “My PayPal address is outdated—use this one instead”
• “I’m buying this as a gift—can you ship directly to the recipient?”

Red Flags:

• Any request to ship to a different address than what’s on the order
• Urgency in the request (“I need this changed TODAY”)
• Offers of extra payment for the “inconvenience”

Prevention:

• Never ship to any address other than the one shown in eBay’s Order Details
• If a buyer has a legitimate address issue, direct them to cancel and repurchase with the correct address
• Document all address change requests in messages (never respond to off-platform communications)
• Set up a standard response template declining address changes

4. Overpayment/Check Scam

How It Works:

While less common with eBay’s managed payments, this scam still occurs, particularly when scammers convince sellers to accept payment outside eBay’s system. The scammer sends a check or money order for more than the item price, then asks you to wire back the “overpayment.” The original check bounces days or weeks later, leaving you without the item and without the “overpayment” you returned.

Modern Variations:

• Fake eBay payment notifications claiming the buyer “accidentally” overpaid
• Requests to refund “partial” amounts before receiving actual payment
• Zelle or Venmo payment claims with requests to ship immediately

Red Flags:

• Any payment method outside eBay’s managed payments
• “Accidental” overpayments of any amount
• Urgency to ship before payment clears
• Requests to wire money or use gift cards for refunds

Prevention:

• Accept only eBay managed payments—no exceptions
• Never ship until eBay shows the payment as cleared
• Ignore any “payment received” emails that don’t match your eBay account status
• If something seems odd about a payment, contact eBay support directly

5. Off-Platform Payment Scam

How It Works:

The scammer contacts you expressing interest in your item but requests completing the transaction outside of eBay. They claim this will save you fees, speed up the process, or offer premium payment. Once you agree, you lose all eBay protection, and the scammer has multiple ways to defraud you—from fraudulent payments to never paying at all.

Common Approaches:

• “I’ll pay you more through Zelle so you don’t have to pay eBay fees”
• “My corporate purchasing department only uses wire transfers”
• “Can I send you a PayPal gift to avoid fees?”
• “Let’s do this through Facebook Marketplace instead”

Red Flags:

• Any request to communicate or pay outside eBay
• Offers that seem too good (paying more than asking price)
• Claims that eBay’s payment system is “broken” or “giving errors”
• Pressure to complete the transaction quickly off-platform

Prevention:

• Never accept payment outside eBay’s managed payments system
• Keep all communication within eBay’s messaging system
• Report off-platform payment requests to eBay immediately
• Understand that eBay fees are the cost of protection—worth every penny

6. Phishing Emails/Messages

How It Works:

Scammers send emails or messages that appear to be from eBay, PayPal, or other legitimate services. These communications often claim there’s a problem with your account, a payment, or an order, directing you to click a link that leads to a fake website designed to steal your login credentials or financial information.

Common Phishing Themes:

• “Your account has been suspended—verify immediately”
• “Payment for [item] has been received—click to release funds”
• “Buyer has requested a refund—review now”
• “New eBay policy requires identity verification”
• “Your listing violates eBay rules—appeal within 24 hours”

Red Flags:

• Emails from addresses that don’t end in @ebay.com
• Generic greetings like “Dear Seller” instead of your name
• Poor grammar or spelling errors
• Urgency and threats (“account will be closed in 24 hours”)
• Links that don’t go to ebay.com (hover to check before clicking)
• Requests for sensitive information eBay would never ask for

Prevention:

• Always access eBay by typing ebay.com directly in your browser
• Never click links in emails—go to eBay directly and check your account
• Enable two-factor authentication on your eBay account
• Use unique, strong passwords for all marketplace accounts
• Report phishing emails to spoof@ebay.com

7. Feedback Extortion

How It Works:

A buyer threatens to leave negative feedback unless you provide something outside the original transaction—a partial refund, free additional items, or other concessions. This is explicitly against eBay policy, but many sellers comply because they fear the impact on their feedback score.

Common Scenarios:

• “The item is fine, but I’ll leave negative feedback unless you refund $50”
• “I changed my mind—refund me or I’ll say the item was fake”
• “Ship me another item free or I’ll destroy your feedback”
• Post-delivery threats: “Give me a partial refund or I’ll open an INAD case”

Red Flags:

• Any message that connects feedback to requests for money or goods
• Buyers who mention feedback score repeatedly before purchasing
• Post-sale requests that come with implicit or explicit threats

Prevention:

• Document all threatening messages through eBay’s message system
• Report feedback extortion to eBay immediately—it’s against their policy
• Don’t give in to threats (this encourages more extortion attempts)
• If feedback extortion occurs, eBay can often remove the negative feedback
• Understand that occasional negative feedback from difficult buyers may be unavoidable—focus on overall feedback percentage

8. Partial Refund Manipulation

How It Works:

The buyer receives the item and claims there’s a minor issue that doesn’t warrant a full return—a scratch they didn’t notice in photos, missing accessories, or slight damage. They request a partial refund rather than going through the full return process. Some buyers do this legitimately, but scammers exploit it to systematically collect partial refunds while keeping perfectly good items.

The Pattern:

Professional partial refund scammers target multiple sellers with the same approach, collecting small amounts ($20-50) that sellers often give to avoid negative feedback or return hassles. Across dozens of transactions, they accumulate significant fraudulent refunds.

Red Flags:

• Partial refund requests immediately after delivery
• Vague complaints that are hard to verify
• Buyer feedback history showing multiple similar requests
• Requests for specific dollar amounts that seem calculated
• Unwillingness to return the item for a full refund

Prevention:

• Document item condition extensively before shipping
• Include detailed photos in listings showing any imperfections
• Offer full returns rather than partial refunds—legitimate buyers usually accept
• If you offer partial refunds, keep amounts minimal and document everything
• Report serial partial refund requesters to eBay

9. Fake Tracking Number Returns

How It Works:

When a buyer opens a return case, they’re required to ship the item back with tracking. Scammers obtain tracking numbers that show delivery to your zip code—but not actually to your address. They might use tracking from a small envelope sent to a random address in your area, or tracking from an unrelated package. The tracking shows “delivered,” they get their refund, and you never receive the return.

How They Get Fake Tracking:

• Shipping empty envelopes to random addresses in seller’s zip code
• Using tracking from legitimate packages going to other recipients in your area
• Purchasing or stealing tracking numbers from delivery drivers or postal workers

Red Flags:

• Return tracking showing unusual delivery timeline (too fast)
• Package weight on tracking significantly different from original item
• Tracking showing delivery but nothing received
• Carrier unable to provide delivery confirmation signature

Prevention:

• Document the weight of items you ship—return should weigh similar
• Request signature confirmation for return shipments when possible
• Check return tracking immediately when it shows delivered
• If you don’t receive the return, appeal to eBay with tracking discrepancies
• Some sellers use PO Boxes to better document what’s actually delivered

10. High-Value Item Schemes

How It Works:

Expensive items attract sophisticated scammers who may combine multiple techniques for maximum impact. They might purchase a high-value camera, claim INAD, return a replica or broken unit, and threaten negative feedback if you don’t accept the fraudulent return. These schemes can involve multiple eBay accounts working together or even identity theft.

Common Targets:

• Electronics (phones, laptops, graphics cards, cameras)
• Designer goods (handbags, watches, shoes)
• Collectibles (trading cards, coins, memorabilia)
• Luxury items (jewelry, art)
• Limited edition or hard-to-find items

Advanced Tactics:

• Creating buyer accounts with fabricated positive feedback
• Using stolen credit cards for initial purchase (you get paid, they dispute with bank)
• Coordinated schemes with multiple accounts bidding up prices
• Return fraud combined with chargebacks for double recovery

Red Flags:

• New accounts purchasing expensive items without negotiation
• Buyers with feedback only from other new accounts
• International buyers with US shipping addresses (reshipping services)
• Purchases made late at night or on holidays
• Multiple accounts bidding from the same geographic area on your items

Prevention:

• Implement all documentation strategies (photos, video, serial numbers)
• Consider requiring longer feedback history for high-value purchases (block buyers below threshold)
• Use eBay’s authentication services for eligible items
• Ship with maximum insurance and signature requirements
• For luxury items over $2,000, consider eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee program
• Trust your instincts—if a deal feels wrong, it probably is

Red Flags: How to Spot Scammers

Developing your scam radar takes experience, but these warning signs should immediately raise your alert level:

Account Red Flags:

• Zero or very low feedback score (under 10)
• Account created within the last 30 days
• Private feedback (buyer hides their transaction history)
• Feedback showing a pattern of returns, complaints, or negative comments left for sellers
• Multiple negative feedback received as a seller (indicates problematic behavior)

Communication Red Flags:

• Excessive urgency (“I NEED this shipped TODAY”)
• Poor grammar and spelling inconsistent with claimed location
• Copying/pasting generic messages that don’t reference your specific item
• Asking questions already answered in the listing
• Requests to communicate off-platform (email, phone, WhatsApp)
• Overly friendly or flattering messages
• Claiming special circumstances (military deployment, gift for sick relative)

Transaction Red Flags:

• Offering more than asking price without reason
• Requesting specific shipping carriers or methods
• Asking you to falsify customs declarations
• Multiple purchases from same buyer in short period
• Purchase followed immediately by account contact
• Buying high-value item with no questions about condition or authenticity

Shipping Red Flags:

• Address different from account registration location
• Shipping to freight forwarders
• P.O. Box addresses for high-value items
• Requests for specific shipping dates or times
• Multiple items shipping to same address from different buyer accounts

Seller Protection Best Practices

Documentation

Documentation is your insurance policy against scams. When disputes arise, evidence wins cases.

Before Shipping:

• Photograph the item from multiple angles, including any defects or wear
• Capture serial numbers, model numbers, and unique identifiers clearly
• Record video of the item functioning (for electronics)
• Document condition with close-up photos of any imperfections
• Weight the item and package separately—record both weights
• Photograph any accessories, cables, manuals, or included items

During Packing:

• Record video of the packing process from start to finish
• Show the item going into the package with the shipping label visible
• Include the packing tape seal in the video
• Photograph the final sealed package with label
• Consider tamper-evident tape or security seals for high-value items

After Shipping:

• Save all tracking information and delivery confirmations
• Screenshot delivery notifications
• Keep shipping receipts and postage documentation
• Document any carrier communications

File Management:

• Create folders organized by buyer username or order number
• Keep documentation for at least 90 days after delivery (longer for expensive items)
• Back up documentation to cloud storage

Shipping Best Practices

Signature Confirmation:

• Required by eBay for seller protection on items $750+
• Recommended for all items over $100
• Provides proof of delivery to a specific person
• Worth the extra $3-5 for peace of mind

Insurance:

• Consider self-insuring small items (set aside 1-2% of revenue)
• Purchase carrier insurance for items over $200
• Third-party shipping insurance often cheaper than carrier options
• Document the declared value and coverage purchased

Tracking:

• Always use tracking—no exceptions, even for low-value items
• Upload tracking to eBay immediately after shipping
• Monitor tracking until delivery confirmed
• Keep tracking records after delivery (eBay may require them for disputes)

Carrier Selection:

• Stick with major carriers (USPS, UPS, FedEx) for reliable tracking
• Understand each carrier’s claims process
• Note that delivery confirmation quality varies by carrier
• For international shipping, use services with complete tracking

Listing Best Practices

Clear Descriptions:

• Describe the item accurately and completely
• Note all defects, wear, and imperfections
• Include measurements, specifications, and model numbers
• State what’s included and what’s not
• Use straightforward language that can’t be misinterpreted

Accurate Photos:

• Use your own photos—never stock images
• Show the actual item from multiple angles
• Include close-ups of any imperfections
• Photograph serial numbers and authenticity indicators
• Good lighting and clear focus prevent misunderstandings

Return Policy Settings:

• Consider “no returns” for certain categories (reduces some scam opportunities)
• If accepting returns, use “buyer pays return shipping” to deter frivolous returns
• Understand that buyer-funded returns still allow INAD claims
• For high-value items, consider requiring signature on returns

What to Do If You’re Scammed

Even with the best precautions, scams can happen. Here’s your action plan:

Step 1: Document Everything Immediately

Before doing anything else, capture all evidence:

• Screenshot all message conversations
• Save transaction details and buyer information
• Document the return package and contents (photos, video)
• Note dates, times, and any discrepancies
• Keep all physical evidence (packaging, wrong items received)

Step 2: Report to eBay

• Go to the specific order in your Seller Hub
• Click “Report a problem” and select the appropriate category
• Provide all documentation you’ve gathered
• Be factual and specific—avoid emotional language
• Follow up if you don’t hear back within 48 hours

Step 3: Appeal Unfavorable Decisions

If eBay rules against you initially:

• Request a review within 30 days
• Submit additional evidence you may not have included
• Escalate through eBay customer service
• Be persistent but professional
• Ask for supervisor review if frontline support isn’t helping

Step 4: File a Police Report (For Significant Losses)

For substantial losses, especially return fraud:

• File a report with local police (may be the buyer’s jurisdiction)
• Report to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
• Document the police report number
• Share the report with eBay as additional evidence

Step 5: Consider Chargebacks Carefully

If you paid a scammer (rare in selling situations):

• Dispute fraudulent charges with your bank
• Understand this may affect eBay account standing
• Use only as a last resort after eBay processes fail

Step 6: Learn and Adapt

After any scam experience:

• Analyze what warning signs you missed
• Update your processes to prevent similar scams
• Consider whether certain categories or buyer types should be avoided
• Share your experience with seller communities to help others

eBay’s Seller Protection Policies (2026 Update)

eBay has expanded seller protections in recent years, but understanding the limitations is crucial.

What’s Covered:

• Item Not Received claims: Sellers are protected when tracking shows delivery to the buyer’s address
• Signature confirmed deliveries: For items $750+, signature confirmation provides strong protection
• Unauthorized account access: If a buyer claims their account was hacked, eBay may cover legitimate seller losses
• Payment processing errors: Issues with eBay’s managed payments typically resolved in seller’s favor

Requirements to Qualify:

• Ship to the address on the eBay order (no exceptions)
• Use trackable shipping methods
• Upload tracking within the handling time stated in your listing
• Maintain good seller standing (avoid policy violations)
• Respond to claims within required timeframes

What’s Not Covered:

• Shipping to addresses not on the eBay order
• Transactions completed outside eBay
• Items sent without tracking
• Sellers who don’t respond to claims promptly
• Sellers with pattern of policy violations

2026 Updates:

• Enhanced protection for returns with wrong items (requires documentation)
• New appeals process for high-value item disputes
• Extended coverage for items using eBay’s authentication services
• Improved buyer vetting tools available to sellers
• Updated policies on feedback extortion with faster resolution times

High-Risk Categories & Extra Precautions

Some item categories attract disproportionate fraud. If you sell in these areas, enhanced precautions are essential:

Electronics

• Record serial numbers on invoices and listing photos
• Video test functionality before shipping
• Use original packaging when possible
• Consider sealed item verification services
• Be wary of buyers asking highly specific compatibility questions

Designer/Luxury Goods

• Use eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee program for eligible items
• Document authenticity markers (serial numbers, tags, stamps)
• Keep purchase receipts and authenticity cards
• Photograph brand-specific identifiers
• Consider only selling to established accounts

Trading Cards & Collectibles

• Note specific card identifiers, grades, and serial numbers
• Use protective cases with visible condition indicators
• Document with high-resolution photos showing corners and edges
• Consider professional grading for high-value cards
• Ship with appropriate rigid protection

Gift Cards & Digital Items

• Extremely high-risk category—consider avoiding entirely
• Never reveal codes until payment fully clears
• Screenshot card numbers and PINs (secured storage)
• Understand that digital goods have minimal seller protection

Vintage & Antique Items

• Document provenance when available
• Photograph maker’s marks, signatures, and age indicators
• Note condition accurately—vintage expectations differ
• Keep appraisal documents if available

FAQs

How do I cancel a sale if I suspect a scam before shipping?

You can cancel the transaction through eBay’s order management tools. Select “Problem with buyer’s address” or “Something’s wrong with the order” as the reason. You may receive a defect on your account, but this is preferable to losing merchandise to a scammer. Contact eBay support if you have documented evidence of fraud intent.

What if a buyer leaves negative feedback after a scam attempt?

If the feedback is related to extortion attempts or inaccurate, report it to eBay requesting removal. Feedback tied to extortion or clearly retaliatory positive outcomes from fraud attempts is usually removed. You’ll need documentation of the extortion or fraud attempt.

Are there tools to help vet buyers before selling?

Yes. You can check a buyer’s feedback profile for patterns, use eBay’s buyer requirements settings to block certain account types, and set up shipping exclusions for high-fraud areas. Third-party tools also exist for analyzing buyer risk, though they work outside eBay’s ecosystem.

Should I block international buyers to reduce fraud risk?

International sales can be profitable but do carry higher risk. Rather than blocking entirely, consider using eBay’s Global Shipping Program which provides some additional protection, requiring more documentation for international orders, and setting higher value thresholds for what you’ll ship internationally.

How long should I keep documentation after a sale?

eBay allows cases to be opened up to 30 days after delivery for most issues, but chargeback windows can extend to 180 days with some payment methods. For high-value items, keeping documentation for a full year is prudent. Storage is cheap—keep everything.

What should I do if I receive a wrong item in a return?

Photograph and video everything when opening return packages. If you receive something different from what you sent, report it to eBay immediately with your pre-shipping documentation as evidence. This is where thorough documentation of serial numbers and unique identifiers becomes critical.

Can I require buyers to have a certain feedback score before purchasing?

Yes. In your Seller Hub, go to Account > Site Preferences > Buyer requirements. You can block buyers with negative feedback scores, unpaid item strikes, or other risk factors. For high-value items, these settings are essential protection.

Conclusion

Selling on eBay remains a viable and profitable way to build a resale business, but it requires vigilance and preparation. The scammers aren’t going away—they’re adapting and evolving their tactics. Your defense must evolve too.

The key takeaways from this guide:

1. Document everything—before, during, and after shipping. Evidence wins disputes.
2. Know the scams—understanding how fraud works helps you spot it before it happens.
3. Use eBay’s system—off-platform transactions remove your protection entirely.
4. Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, investigate before proceeding.
5. Protect high-value items—enhanced documentation and seller requirements pay dividends.
6. Act quickly—when scams occur, immediate documentation and reporting improve outcomes.

The reselling community is stronger when we share knowledge and support each other. Most eBay transactions are completely legitimate, and most buyers are honest people looking for good deals. By implementing the practices in this guide, you can focus on the rewarding parts of selling while minimizing your exposure to the bad actors.

Stay protected, stay profitable, and happy selling.

Related Resources

• eBay Fee Calculator - Calculate your true costs before listing
• ROI Calculator - Ensure profitable pricing with scam-buffer margins
• Profit Margin Calculator - Factor in potential fraud losses when setting prices