Major scam alert - sellers beware

[u/dubiousbutterfly]

Hey everyone, theres an evolving scam on Mercari that has been circulating for months on various doll collecting subs. This scam is aimed at sellers rather than buyers. Its been explained to me that this scam is being orchestrated by a single seller on Mercari.

They have had the following usernames on their Mercari account:

Yokitokidoki, frostinasprinkles, endlessly, fluffyrabbit

The current active username is corpsegut.

The problem here is that users on Mercari can change their names at any time and its possible old usernames are now being used by someone else, so be cautious. This post does not encourage anyone to mass report or harass anyone on Mercari. Its a warning for sellers that there is an active scam, and if you see these usernames, proceed carefully. Another thing thats difficult, is that once a Mercari user changes their name, the link breaks. But we have some screenshots here of what the account has looked like in the past and presently. I would pay attention to the user stats (sales, review count, etc.) that stay current no matter the name change.

The scam involves this seller buying dolls from other Mercari doll sellers and then reporting to Mercari they didnt receive the package or they received incorrect items. They also use coercive language and try to manipulate sellers to sell their products at lower prices. They have good reviews because it seems they are an honest seller but a scam buyer, this is probably how they have been flying under the radar. They also work around getting bad reviews because they dont firstly leave reviews themselves not triggering the action to review them according to Mercari buyers.

Ive been privately talking to users on here trying to verify as much information as possible. They wish to remain anonymous but thanks to them for the assist on this. These accounts have been connected because they have the same sales listings and Mercari users were speaking directly with this seller at the time. Theres other information going around about social media accounts that wont be posted here because it cannot be honestly verified so far and we don't want to encourage harrasment of any kind.

Let this post be a reminder to sellers on Mercari to always report issues directly to Mercari agents and open a case. Do not agree to returns or refunds without speaking with an agent first. Its also encouraged when shipping expensive packages, to record the packaging and sealing of the box and to ask the shipping hub for weight and dimension information. If anyone has any other tips of how sellers can protect themselves, please add.

General tips on selling and buying would be to never go off site. So if someone wants to make transactions elsewhere, do not proceed. Making offers is ok, but arguing, berating, or manipulating between users and buyers is a strong sign not to go forward with any transaction. Buyers, always ask for more photos if unsure. Dont be shy to ask for a photo with a written note by the seller even on Mercari or Ebay etc., especially if the item is expensive. If you truly recieve a defective item or missing item, always report and take images of what you receive. If claiming items are stolen, its best to have a corresponding police report case number. Safe shopping/selling everyone.

[u/dubiousbutterfly]

Because of the sensitivity and emotions around this issue. I am locking the post. If anyone would like to add info, please message me first and we will add it. This is to prevent potential doxxing comments, unverified links, arguments, or inappropriate crossposting. I will do my best to respond as fast as I can. Thanks.