How to sell on eBay without getting scammed: 2025 guide

Selling on eBay without getting scammed requires understanding common fraud tactics and implementing protective measures that shield you from fraudulent buyers.

Scammers frequently file false “item not received” claims, even when tracking shows successful delivery. Fraudulent buyers use this scam to force refunds, while sellers lose the item, COGS, and shipping costs on transactions.

We'll walk you through how to sell on eBay without getting scammed by covering the most common seller scams, red flags to watch for, and proven protective strategies. You’ll learn how Nifty can help you manage items across multiple platforms as an additional protection against fraud.

How to sell on eBay without getting scammed

Learning how to sell on eBay without getting scammed requires implementing specific protective measures to shield yourself from fraudulent buyers and payment disputes. Follow these strategies to sell items on eBay to actual buyers, not scammers:

How to avoid eBay scams: At a glance

Step 1: Use eBay’s approved payment methods only

eBay's managed payments system protects sellers by processing all transactions through verified financial institutions. When problems arise, eBay provides dispute resolution support. By using eBay’s payment methods, you avoid accepting alternative payment methods that scammers favor, like wire transfers, gift cards, or personal checks.

Legitimate buyers understand that eBay's payment system protects both parties. So, they won't pressure sellers to use alternative methods that bypass platform protections.

Step 2: Document sales with photos and tracking numbers

Well-documented sales transactions create evidence trails that protect sellers during disputes. Documentation should include item condition, contents, and delivery confirmation through visual and shipping records. 

Before packaging, photograph items from multiple angles, capture serial numbers or unique identifiers to counter false claims about condition or contents. For instance, if you’re a sneaker reseller, photograph shoe boxes, labels, and contents before sealing packages. Always save the tracking information that shows delivery confirmation.

Pro tip: Create a file that contains all the documentation for every sale so you can easily reference the information if you encounter a scammer. 

Step 3: Set clear return policies

Well-defined return policies protect sellers by establishing specific conditions and procedures that buyers must follow when requesting returns or refunds. Create a policy that outlines return windows, condition requirements, and the party responsible for return shipping. Such a policy prevents buyers from exploiting vague terms during disputes. 

For instance, if you’re a vintage clothing seller, limit returns to 14 days. Require items to be in original condition with tags attached, clearly stating that buyers pay return shipping unless items arrive significantly different from descriptions. 

Clear policies give sellers stronger positions during eBay disputes. They help legitimate buyers understand expectations while deterring scammers who prefer targeting sellers with ambiguous or overly generous return terms.

Step 4: Ship with signature confirmation for high-value items

Signature confirmation provides legal proof of delivery. It prevents “item not received” scams by requiring in-person receipt instead of standard confirmation. This service costs extra but protects sellers from fraudulent claims that packages never arrived. 

For example, a camera seller ships an $800 lens with an adult signature required. The buyer or authorized adult must sign, preventing false non-delivery claims. Signature confirmation creates undeniable delivery proof that supports sellers in disputes. It also deters scammers targeting high-value items with false claims.

Step 5: Communicate only through eBay’s messaging system

eBay's messaging platform creates records of all buyer-seller communications that support sellers during disputes. Sellers who respond to off-platform communication requests, like phone calls, texts, or Telegram messaging, lose documentation rights. 

By documenting communication, sellers can prove their innocence when buyers make false claims about agreements or item descriptions. This communication method also helps sellers quickly identify scammers, as they invite off-channel communication.

eBay scams: The real risks sellers face

Unfortunately, yes, you can get scammed on eBay as a seller. eBay sellers face scam risks from fraudulent buyers who abuse return policies, file false claims, or use stolen payment methods to purchase items. 

For example, a common scam involves buyers who receive legitimate products but claim they never arrived. This forces sellers to refund money, resulting in a loss of both the item and shipping costs.

Many sellers believe eBay seller protection covers every case. But eBay often sides with buyers in disputes, even when sellers provide evidence. So, to avoid scams on eBay, sellers should recognize fraudulent buyer tactics and take protective measures early.

The most common eBay scams sellers face

Common eBay scams include false “item not received” claims, overpayment scams, and return fraud. Scammers falsify dispute info to bypass resolution, leaving sellers without recourse. Here are the most common scams eBay sellers face: 

The most common eBay scams: At a glance

1. “Item not received” claims

Fraudulent buyers file false “item not received” claims, even when tracking shows successful delivery. Scammers often target high-value items, like electronics or designer goods. Sellers must provide extensive proof, while buyers only claim non-receipt.

Sellers claim that eBay often sides with buyers despite tracking evidence. To illustrate, a seller ships a $500 vintage watch with signature confirmation. The buyer claims it never arrived and opens an eBay case, eventually giving the scammer their money back. When buyers succeed with this scam, they receive items for free. 

2. Overpayment scams

Scammers exploit seller trust by creating urgency to ship and process refunds for money that never existed. Buyers send fake payments or overpay fraudulently and then request refunds before sellers realize the original payment bounced. 

For example, a seller receives $1,200 for an $800 dining set. The buyer claims overpayment and requests a $400 wire refund. The seller ships the furniture and refunds $400. Days later, they learn the $1,200 payment was fake, so the seller loses both cash and furniture.

3. Returns fraud and “switcheroo” scams

Dishonest buyers purchase authentic items, then return completely different replacements and keep the original products. This scam exploits eBay's buyer-friendly return policies. Scammers usually target branded electronics, designer clothing, and collectibles where authentic versions command premium prices. 

For instance, a shoe reseller sells authentic Air Jordans for $800, but the buyer returns obvious counterfeits in the original box and claims the shoes were fake from the start. eBay processes the return without authenticating the returned items, forcing the seller to accept fake shoes as a “full refund.” The buyer keeps the authentic pair worth hundreds more.

4. Chargeback abuse

After completing a purchase and receiving an item, the scammer disputes charges with their credit card company. This outside dispute reverses payments outside eBay's system because credit card companies usually side with cardholders. eBay can’t offer much help against these scams.

To illustrate, a seller ships a $2,000 guitar with tracking and signature on delivery. The buyer files a chargeback claiming unauthorized card use or that the product was a fake. The credit card company reverses the payment, and the buyer keeps the guitar and money.

5. Fake buyer accounts and phishing attempts

Scammers create zero-feedback buyer accounts and ask sellers to contact them off-platform, often claiming to have questions about the item. Once off-platform, these scammers try to obtain the seller’s personal details or push for alternative payment methods that bypass eBay’s system. 

For instance, an electronics seller receives messages from a “buyer” requesting bank account information for a “direct wire transfer” for a laptop purchase, claiming PayPal restrictions prevent normal payment. The fake buyer uses official-looking email addresses and urgency tactics to pressure sellers into sharing financial details, which they use for identity theft.

Red flags: How to spot potential eBay scams

When you identify red flags, you can discover potential eBay scams and expose fraudulent buyers. These warning signs appear in buyer behavior, communication patterns, and account details that experienced sellers learn to recognize quickly. 

Use the following methods to spot eBay scams:

1. Suspicious buyer behavior: Buyers who immediately request external communication through text or email raise major red flags. These accounts often claim they have “urgent questions” and attempt to lure you off-platform to email, text, or Telegram to execute transactions where fraud protection disappears.

2. Unusual payment methods offered: Scammers propose alternative payment methods like wire transfers, gift cards, or checks. These methods bypass buyer protection policies, enabling fraudsters to reverse payments or use stolen financial information.

3. Pressure tactics and urgent requests: To circumvent safety protocols, fraudulent buyers create artificial urgency by claiming they need immediate shipping for gifts, emergencies, or travel deadlines. These tactics aim to bypass normal verification processes and rush sellers into making mistakes.

4. Inconsistencies in shipping addresses: Buyers request shipping to addresses that don't match their registered locations, or ask for delivery to freight forwarding services in high-risk countries. These shipping discrepancies typically indicate stolen account usage or an international scam operation.

Requirements for seller protection and what eBay covers

To receive seller protections, eBay requires that sellers must ship orders to confirmed addresses using eBay-approved carriers that provide trackable services. Sellers must also respond to claims within deadlines and follow marketplace policies consistently.

eBay's seller protection policies provide limited coverage for sellers who follow specific requirements. But these protections have gaps that scammers exploit regularly. Here’s what eBay’s policies cover, and what they don’t. 

What eBay covers

• Payment reversals and fraud: eBay protects against PayPal payment reversals when they meet shipping and handling rules within the required timeframes. Coverage also extends to unauthorized transactions made with stolen accounts and cases where buyers abandon purchases.

• Protection for item not received disputes: eBay shields sellers in item not received claims when valid tracking confirms delivery. Meeting documentation standards ensures fair protection against fraudulent disputes.

What eBay doesn’t cover

• No protection for return fraud: eBay does not protect sellers against return fraud, including cases where buyers send back the wrong product, damaged goods, or counterfeit substitutes.

• Exclusions for chargebacks: Sellers are not covered in chargeback disputes started through credit card providers, which bypass eBay’s resolution system. These gaps expose sellers to risks outside eBay’s policies. Sellers should take proactive measures, such as purchasing insurance, to safeguard against this scam.

How to report fraudulent buyers

Sellers report fraudulent buyers through eBay’s Resolution Center. Many experienced sellers suggest that you open a case within 1 or 2 days. Always provide evidence like tracking numbers, photos, or messages. 

Reports must clearly document false claims, return fraud, or policy violations. eBay reviews these cases and may restrict abusive buyers, though enforcement often feels limited.

If a seller loses a dispute, they usually forfeit both the item and the payment, while covering shipping costs and potential chargeback fees. eBay does offer an appeal process, but you’ll need to provide new information to succeed.

3 tips from eBay sellers

We searched YouTube, Reddit, and Trustpilot to find real-world strategies that experienced sellers have developed through years of successful transactions and costly mistakes. These insights come from actual seller experiences rather than theoretical advice, offering practical solutions:

1. Set return policies

• Return for refund: Always require a buyer to ship an item back to you for a full refund. A YouTuber suggested this policy on January 13th, 2025, and another seller posted a similar tactic on Reddit on January 12th, 2025. 

• Partial refunds can help: On January 12th, 2025, a buyer noted that by offering a partial refund, a seller avoided costly return shipping. This pushed the buyer to keep the item.

2. Use clear documentation

• Appeal with evidence to protect your reputation: On June 26th, 2025, a seller successfully won an appeal by providing eBay with new evidence of buyer fraud. They provided eBay with a screenshot of their original listing.

• Keep communication within eBay’s platform: A seller noted on September 27th, 2024, that when eBay was reviewing a case, the resolution team reviewed the chat history between the buyer and the seller. If communication happened outside the platform, resolving the issue would be complicated. 

3. Use inventory management tools 

• Sell large volumes: One eBay seller noted on January 11th, 2025, that although buyer scams are rare, selling in volume is a good protection tactic. If you sell 100 items and only one goes to a fraudulent buyer, you still make a solid profit. Sellers can use tools like Nifty to manage large sales volumes.

• Good descriptions and photos prevent scams: A seller with over 20 years of experience said on January 11th, 2025, that sellers should always provide thorough listing descriptions and photos. Tools like Nifty use AI to generate accurate descriptions and provide quality photo editing tools, enabling you to display your items clearly.

Alternatives if you’re worried about eBay scams

Although many sellers in the examples above say that scams are very rare, eBay alternatives exist for concerned sellers. Unfortunately, scammers operate across all online marketplaces, so switching platforms won't eliminate fraud risks entirely. However, here are some eBay alternatives: 

• Poshmark: This reselling platform is legit for selling designer items. It uses a social-media model, which allows sellers to get to know buyers by liking, sharing, and hosting live-streamed Posh Parties and Posh Shows.

• Mercari: This general marketplace works well as an eBay alternative for electronics, collectibles, and everyday items. It offers simple mobile listing tools and fast payouts, but buyers expect bargain prices that can hurt profit margins.

• Etsy: Etsy specializes in handmade, vintage, and craft supplies with global reach and premium pricing potential. However, complex fee structures and strict authenticity requirements can overwhelm some sellers.

• StockX: This authentication-focused marketplace prevents most scams through rigorous verification processes. Yet, it requires longer processing times and targets only high-end sneakers, streetwear, and collectibles.

• Depop: This fashion-focused marketplace attracts Gen Z and young Millennials buyers seeking vintage and Y2K fashion. It offers Instagram-style feeds and social discovery features, but users have reported slow customer support.

Protect your sales and crosslist safely with Nifty

Now that you know how to sell on eBay without getting scammed, why not use the same knowledge and crosslist your items on other platforms too? Use a tool like Nifty as your command center to eliminate the need for manual listing tasks. Here’s why sellers love Nifty:

• Turn photos into listings: Upload a picture and Nifty’s AI builds a complete listing with SEO-friendly titles, polished descriptions, and hashtags.

• Crosslist to five marketplaces: Post on Poshmark, eBay, Mercari, Depop, and Etsy in seconds. (More marketplaces coming soon!)

• Automatic delisting? Sorted: When you make a sale, Nifty’s sales detection auto-delists that item from every marketplace. Say goodbye to double-selling disasters and “sorry, it’s already gone” apology messages.

• Bulk tools = no busywork: Share and relist daily without lifting a finger. Update or discount dozens of items at once. You can even schedule drafts to go live while you sleep.

• Track sales performance: View sales, fees, bestsellers, and slow movers in one dashboard. See exactly what’s working and where to focus next.

Get Nifty’s 7-day free trial and save time, increase your items’ visibility, and earn more profit.

FAQs

1. How do I protect myself against “item not received” claims?

Protect yourself against “item not received” claims by using signature confirmation for items over $750. Track shipments with eBay-approved services, like USPS, UPS, or FedEx. Always ship to confirmed buyer addresses and save tracking numbers and delivery confirmations in organized files for fast access during disputes.

2. What should I do if a buyer sends too much money?

If a buyer sends too much money, never process refunds immediately or through alternative payment methods like wire transfers, as this indicates an overpayment scam. Contact eBay support immediately to report suspicious overpayment situations and only use eBay's official refund processes if legitimate overpayment occurs.

3. Are chargebacks common on eBay?

Chargebacks are relatively uncommon on eBay, but represent serious threats because credit card companies typically side with cardholders. This allows fraudsters to bypass eBay's seller protection entirely. When chargebacks occur, sellers usually lose both the item and payment while facing additional chargeback fees from their payment processor.