PayPal (Might Not Have) Ordered Destruction Of Antique Violin

Violin destroyed by a buyer at the insistence of PayPal

[Edit] There are now suggestions that this situation is not so clear cut.  But to be honest PayPal have hardly covered themselves in glory for a long time over issues such as these.

PayPal seem to be on a mission to set themselves up as the most cold-hearted, evil organisation in the universe.

Imagine you own an antique violin predating the Second World War.  Imagine you then sell this item for $2500 and receive payment via PayPal.

Now imagine the buyer disputes the authenticity of the label, and demands a refund.

Now imagine that PayPal decide, with neither proof nor expertise, that the violin is counterfeit and that they will only refund the money to the buyer if he destroys the violin.

Leaving you $2500 and one antique violin out of pocket.

Why is there no alternative to these bastards?

[Edit] There are now suggestions that this situation is not so clear cut.  But to be honest PayPal have hardly covered themselves in glory for a long time over issues such as these.


***
[hat tip to @roryparle]