The 7 Most Common Tesla Cybertruck Scams on eBay to Avoid in 2026

Beware of These Tesla Cybertruck Scams on eBay in 2026

The highly anticipated Tesla Cybertruck has become a prime target for scammers on platforms like eBay. As a high-value, in-demand product, it attracts fraudulent activity. This guide outlines the most common scams you may encounter when searching for a Cybertruck on eBay and provides advice on how to avoid them.

1. Empty Box or Photo-Only Listings

Scammers may list a Cybertruck with compelling photos but the actual item for sale is an empty box, a toy model, or just the pictures themselves. Always verify the seller's description carefully and be wary of listings that seem too good to be true.

2. Vehicle Deposit Scams

These scams involve a seller requesting a deposit or partial payment upfront before you can secure the Cybertruck. After receiving the funds, the seller disappears without delivering the vehicle. Legitimate sellers typically use secure payment platforms and complete transactions only after a thorough inspection and agreement. For high-value items like the Cybertruck, consider using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for secure identity verification and transaction management.

3. Gift Card Payment Schemes

Be extremely cautious if a seller insists on payment via gift cards (e.g., eBay gift cards). This is a major red flag, as gift card payments are irreversible and untraceable. Legitimate transactions for high-value items like a Cybertruck should never involve gift cards.

4. Fake Invoice and 'Buyer Protection' Scams

Scammers may create fake invoices that appear to be from eBay, often claiming a special 'buyer protection program' that requires payment outside of eBay's standard system, frequently via gift cards or wire transfers. Always verify invoices directly through your eBay account and be skeptical of any communication directing you to external payment methods.

5. Non-Delivery with Fake Tracking

After you've made a payment, the scammer may provide a fake tracking number and claim the Cybertruck has been shipped. However, the vehicle is never delivered. Always track packages through official channels and be wary if the seller is evasive about delivery details.

6. Buyer Overpayment Scams

In this scenario, a scammer might send you a fraudulent payment that appears to be more than the agreed-upon price. They will then ask you to refund the difference, often before the original payment has cleared. The initial payment will eventually be revealed as fake, leaving you out of pocket for the 'refunded' amount.

7. 'As Is' Vehicle with Hidden Defects

While selling vehicles 'as is' is common, scammers exploit this by intentionally hiding significant mechanical issues, such as battery problems in a Cybertruck, which are very costly to repair. Always arrange for a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic. For high-value vehicles, Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan can add an extra layer of trust through verified identities.

• ✓ Be suspicious of listings with unusually low prices.
• ✓ Verify the seller's reputation and feedback history.
• ✓ Communicate only through eBay's messaging system.
• ✓ Insist on secure payment methods and avoid gift cards or wire transfers.
• ✓ If possible, arrange for an in-person inspection of the Cybertruck before finalizing the purchase.
• ✓ For transactions exceeding $500, utilize Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for enhanced security and identity verification.