It seems that this scam (over bid and then get your money back) is a favourite with Some Ebay buyers.
I have been a private buyer and occasional selle on Ebay for many years, and have just been through a typical seller killing occasion as many have already mentioned here.
The buyer won the artical and 10 days later emailed to say the item was not as described, claiming it was scratched and filthy!
The buyer suggested that I make him a rebate and then he would not consider asking for a full refund and would give me a good recomendation! I was at first confused as to why the buyer would make these complaints, and after some thought, offered the buyer a refund less my costs (Ebay and postage), providing the item was first returned to me in the same condition as I sent it. The buyer refused and said he would not do that because he had cleaned the item, I replied to him that I would not discuss the issue further. The buyer then filed for a complete refund.
I passed the problem over to Ebay and spoke two times to ebay people who said they thought the case would be in my favour. However, after instructing the buyer to return the item to me, Ebay said I was to let them know when I have received the item and then they would close the case. I received the item and in good condition and soforth informed Ebay. Ebay intstructed me to tick the refund button, which I dumly did! Then of course the buyer was given a complete refund and my Paypal account was frozen in debit.
The item was hardly used and in perfect condition, clean and not at all blemished , had had photographed it in Hi Resolution and could prove the condition..This proved to be a complete waste of effort as Ebay ignored my offer to see the pictures.
This exprience might be not so bad for a comercial seller that has a contingency in their costing, but for me it was very painful, being a pensioner I often sell some items that I am not using i order to buy something else, now I will not bother any more, it costs more thanit is worth.
I think international law should be brought into force for all Ebay transactions. Another point, of which I am not sure of it's legality, is to privately send the buyer a bill for ones out of pocket expenses! Perhaps that is worth trying?