How to Spot a Scam on eBay
With 29% of eBay buyers reporting scam experiences, knowing the warning signs is crucial. Learn how to shop safely and protect your money on eBay.
eBay remains one of the UK's largest online marketplaces, with millions of transactions every day. But scammers are active on the platform too. According to Which?, 29% of eBay buyers surveyed had experienced a scam in the previous two years.
The numbers
- £104.6 million was lost to online shopping and auction fraud in the UK in the year to October 2024 — over 56,600 reported cases (Action Fraud)
- 37% of UK adults have experienced a marketplace scam (Experian, 2025)
- Only 59% of APP fraud losses were reimbursed in 2024 (UK Finance)
Common eBay scams
1. Non-delivery
The seller takes your money but never sends the item. They may provide a fake tracking number or claim the item was lost in transit.
2. Counterfeit goods
Fake designer clothing, electronics, or accessories listed as genuine. The photos may look legitimate, but the item that arrives is a cheap imitation.
3. Bait and switch
The listing shows a high-quality item, but the seller sends a cheaper or damaged version, hoping you won't bother with the returns process.
4. Shill bidding
The seller uses fake accounts to bid on their own items, driving up the price. This is against eBay's policies but can be hard to detect.
5. Off-platform payment requests
The seller contacts you asking to complete the deal outside eBay — often via bank transfer, wire transfer, or gift cards. This removes eBay's buyer protection.
6. Empty box scams
The seller sends a package (so tracking shows delivery), but the box is empty or contains something worthless.
Red flags to watch for
- New seller with no feedback — higher risk, especially for expensive items
- Price significantly below market value — if everyone else is selling it for £500 and one listing is £150, be suspicious
- Asks to complete the sale off eBay — this is always a red flag
- Stock photos instead of actual photos — ask the seller for real photos of the actual item
- Vague or copied descriptions — legitimate sellers describe their items in detail
- Seller located abroad but claims UK delivery — common with counterfeit goods
- Won't answer questions — a genuine seller will happily provide more information
How to protect yourself on eBay
- Always pay through eBay's checkout — this ensures you're covered by eBay's Money Back Guarantee.
- Check seller feedback — look at their rating and read recent reviews.
- Use PayPal or credit card — these offer additional buyer protection.
- Read the listing carefully — check for phrases like "box only" or "photo of item" that scammers use as loopholes.
- Keep all communication on eBay — this creates an evidence trail if you need to dispute.
- Report suspicious listings — help protect other buyers too.
Verify before transferring money
If any eBay seller asks you to pay by bank transfer instead of through eBay's system, stop. Verify their identity first with a quick check.
WhoAmIPaying verifies bank account names, company registrations, VAT numbers, and online reviews — all in under 30 seconds.