Ripped off with fake item now PayPal wants 'expert' opinion

[kustomizer99]

So yes, I was recently ripped off by a seller on a non-genuine item. I got conned.

I put in a complaint to PayPal and after several weeks of silence they now tell me I need to have the item verified by an independent expert as not being original, and I'll then need to fax them all kinds of notarised supporting documentation.

Has anyone else had to go through this after being scammed? I'll probably just let it go, it was only $35, which will still be missed, but it seems more trouble than it's worth.

[*new2vintage]

It's standard procedure for Paypal. They don't necessarily give anyone weeks of silence. It can take a while to process a claim and if a case isn't escalated for a while it can take longer. Try to find a person who can supply the information you need. If you are lucky they might not want to be paid.

[kustomizer99]

Yes, I've never had to go through this before.... always a new experience to be has on eBay, even after 14 years.

There's not even any expert in my local area, and it's not like I'm going to drive 3 hours to Sydney to find one for a $35 rip off. Rather a nuisance.

[davewil1964]

Unfortunately it's your word against the seller's. Paypal have no idea who is telling the truth. That is why they require independent verification.

[i-once-was-bump]

Is it a very obvious fake?

Would it be possible to get an expert to look at photos of the item?

Is it one of the collectables from cereal packets?

Who is expert in these items? (I don't mean for you to name the person but sort of occupation)

[kustomizer99]

Hi -- yes, it's a very obvious fake, and it is a cereal premium item -- or supposed to be one.

Ironically I'm an expert on this myself, but I'd have to get a third party to act on my behalf. There is a fellow in Sydney....

I could send him a photo, but I'm not sure if that would satisfy PPs requirements -- they may say the photo could be of anything from anywhere.

It really looks like PayPal buyer protection only works when an item isn't sent at all.

I'm now glad I learned this lesson on a lower-value item rather than something that cost hundreds or more!

[*new2vintage]

You don't need to tell Paypal that an expert has only seen a photo of the item but you will need to supply them with a copy of his statement.

[i-once-was-bump]

 an expert can see the listing from which you bought the item and as for showing someone any old photo the same could be said about the real item, you could show an expert any old toy.

trust has to come into it and if you tell the expert you only want their opinion if the are happy with the clarity of the photos then maybe that is how it has to be.

you have left feedback for this transaction so maybe you should move on and in future don't leave feedback until everything is sorted out.

[davewil1964]

Hi -- yes, it's a very obvious fake, and it is a cereal premium item -- or supposed to be one.

Ironically I'm an expert on this myself, but I'd have to get a third party to act on my behalf. There is a fellow in Sydney....

I could send him a photo, but I'm not sure if that would satisfy PPs requirements -- they may say the photo could be of anything from anywhere.

It really looks like PayPal buyer protection only works when an item isn't sent at all.

I'm now glad I learned this lesson on a lower-value item rather than something that cost hundreds or more!

So if you couldn't tell from the photo on the listing, how is the other expert supposed to know from a photo you send them?

[phorum_junkie*]

Mint in original packet issued in Coco Krispies

In the UK Kellogs make Coco Pops and Rice Krispies!!!!!!