Not a scam, it's a way to protect buyers from counterfeit goods.
Eligible items are automatically opted in and you cannot opt out.
From eBay help pages: How eBay Authenticity Guarantee works
If your item is eligible for eBay Authenticity Guarantee, it will be automatically added to the program, free of charge. There is no opt in or opt out option.
When you sell an eligible item covered by Authenticity Guarantee, you have to send it to our authenticators, instead of directly to the buyer.
After a product arrives with the authenticators, the first thing they'll do is verify that the contents are consistent with the listing title, description and images. Then, they'll perform a thorough physical inspection for authenticity, which includes the structure, materials, tags, logos, packaging and any accessories.
Once an item is verified as authentic, it receives a unique NFC-enabled tag that provides detailed information about the authenticity, and it's sent on to the buyer with tracked express delivery.
eBay currently covers all costs of the Authenticity Guarantee program, including the inspection process and express delivery from the authentication facility to the buyer.
Qualifying for eBay Authenticity Guarantee
If you sell sneakers or handbags on eBay, you don't need to do anything to opt into Authenticity Guarantee โ we'll automatically show the blue Authenticity Guarantee tick on listings that meet the eligibility criteria above.
So if you don't wish to participate then you will need to find somewhere else to sell your bag.
