This is the first time this has happened to me and I don't know what to do. Very upsetting.
Don't expect eBay to be concerned. This is what eBay has told other sellers:
"Our advice to all sellers on site is to be set up for the possibility that returns of a faulty nature may happen, while it is unlikely it is a risk associated with selling online and the costs associated should be built into your selling plans. I compare it to how the high street stores have a budget put aside for theft, damage or items being returned in a lesser condition then sent."
In other words, according to eBay sellers should add something into their prices to cover losses from fraudulent returns. Nice for eBay, too, as it will mean higher fees.
This is VERY different from the reassurance eBay gives sellers in its money back guarantee policy, that they may be able to "deduct the amount of loss from the amount refunded to the buyer if the item is returned after being used or damaged by the buyer".
In reality, eBay has explained to sellers that as it didn't see the original item sent to the buyer, or the item the buyer returned, it is not in a position to take sides and verify who has the valid complaint. EBay's idea of not taking sides is to require the seller to refund the buyer.
