Can I get scammed on a legitimate marketplace like eBay?
Yes. Even trusted marketplaces have fraud risks, particularly off-platform payment requests, fake escrow, and SNAD (significantly not as described) fraud.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
eBay and similar verified marketplaces have substantial fraud protections, but scammers exploit their edges. Common tactics include: convincing a buyer to communicate and pay outside eBay using cash, bank transfer, or crypto (removing all protections); providing counterfeit items or sending an empty box; listing a genuine item but swapping it for a lower-value one; and shill bidding to artificially inflate auction prices. As a seller, buyers may falsely claim an item was not as described to obtain a full refund while keeping the item. Understanding the platform's dispute resolution process and never leaving the platform's messaging and payment system are the strongest protections.
Common red flags
- Seller or buyer asks you to continue the transaction outside eBay
- Seller suggests an alternative payment service with no buyer protection
- Item arrives clearly different from the listing without adequate photos for dispute
- Buyer claims non-delivery or significant difference very shortly after the item was sent
- Price is unusually low for a high-demand item
What to do now
- Use eBay's official payment and messaging systems for all communications and payments
- Never pay outside the platform even if offered a discount
- Open a formal eBay dispute through the Resolution Centre if defrauded
- Keep proof of postage and photograph items before shipping
Frequently asked questions
Does eBay's Money Back Guarantee cover me if I was scammed?
eBay's Money Back Guarantee covers most transactions where items don't arrive or are significantly not as described, provided you paid through eBay's checkout system. Off-platform transactions are not covered.