buyer asking to contact them offline

[dragondave71]

I am listing for the first time only recently.

I have had one buyer who won an auction then messaged me to contact them on a cell phone or they will not pay. I sent an invoice and this person has still not paid. Is this a scam or something?

Now I have someone else who is asking for my phone number to send images of how they want an item packed for posting and seems a bit too eager promising to buy an expensive item as they really want it.. Seems a bit off..

These requests appear to be in breach of ebay policies. Can someone please advise me if this needs to be reported?

Thanks

[davewil1964 · Accepted solution]

It is a scam.

Cancel the sale with ' problem with buyer's address'. Or if enough time has elapsed, did not pay. Block both of them (who are likely the same person). Be aware that scammers target new sellers as most, including you, don't understand how online selling, specifically eBay, works.

Read up on eBay selling. If you know what the item is worth list as BIN with immediate payment.

Read up on eBay selling.

[springyzone · Accepted solution]

Absolutely off.

Definitely a scam, as dave said.

After 4 days, you can open an ebay claim against them for non payment. I'd probably do that and their account would get a strike. You will need to do either that or cancel the sale so that you can get your fees back. You don't want to end up out of pocket for a scammer.

[sandypebbles · Accepted solution]

Total scams, and I'm sorry to say not in the least bit surprising given you are a new seller with many high prices listed

These scammers target sellers just like you, swarming like grubs around a carcass head

At least you instantly realised these are scammers, and have read up on policies so you are aware of what they are

[daydreams_12 · Accepted solution]

Good on you for actually looking at policies.  So many people come to the boards who have never bothered to read any of the policies or "how to's" when newly listing.

Good luck with your selling.

[dragondave71]

Thanks for all of your advice. It's good to know there are people like you out there who are willing to spend the time to help.