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Online Fraud
On eBay, thousands of legitimate transactions take place every day between successful buyers and sellers. Unfortunately a small number may be subject to an attempt of fraud.
eBay has NO tolerance for criminals attempting online fraud. Our internal systems and technologies keep a watch on key areas of the site; we work with legal authorities; and ensure our members are educated about safe online behaviour.
Sellers attempting fraud
Unfortunately commerce can attract fraudsters, and online commerce is no different. The most common attempt of fraud may occur when a seller lists an item they don't intend to send but accepts money for it.

We also see criminal groups trying to lure members to trade outside eBay. They typically ask buyers to make payments using Western Union because it is untraceable.

To reduce the likelihood of seller fraud:
  • Only use safe payment methods like PayPal PaisaPay . With PayPal PaisaPay your account information is hidden from sellers.
  • Never use Western Union, MoneyGram (which is prohibited by eBay) or other instant wire money transfer services.
  • Be wary of fake Second Chance Offers. Always check your messages emails in My eBay for genuine Second Chance Offers.
  • Never trade outside the eBay site. Items purchased outside the site may not be eligible for Buyer Protection*.
  • Get to know your seller – check their feedback Feedback profile Profile before making a bid or Buy It Now purchase.
  • Carefully read item descriptions and the seller's terms.
  • Remember: If an offer sounds too good to be true – it probably is.
  • Don't believe a seller who says that eBay is holding goods at its warehouse. eBay is a marketplace that brings together sellers and buyers. We never take possession of items from sellers or hold money from buyers.
Buyers attempting fraud
Although rare, a buyer may attempt fraud, usually by overpaying for an item with a fake cheque and asking sellers to send the goods with a credit for the amount "overpaid". Sometimes a buyer may attempt to persuade sellers to transact outside the eBay site.

Even though buyer fraud is rare, to reduce the likelihood:
  • Never trade outside the eBay site.
  • Offer PaisaPay as a payment option for buyers.
  • Wait for funds to clear before sending the item.
  • Be suspicious of buyers offering you much more than the item is worth.
  • Be wary of cheques or demand drafts, especially those from overseas institutions.
  • Don't be tempted to send an item based on a buyer emailing you a receipt or "money transfer number (MTN)". This may not be genuine.
Working with police and regulators to make eBay safe

eBay has 2,000 Trust & Safety staff globally whose job it is to make sure eBay members stay safe online. We cooperate with law enforcement and regulatory agencies worldwide, 24 hours a day, seven days a week to work against online fraud. Chances are, anyone attempting fraud on eBay will get caught.

Find out how to contact eBay if you are in law enforcement.

Find out more

Learn about other types of online fraud including fraudulent emails.