I have been scammed and need help

[catherinec10]

I'm seeking help with a frustrating situation after ordering a custom painting from Elyssa Portrait Creations. I placed a pre-order for a portrait painting to be painted Jan/Feb 2024 on July 1, 2023. I paid in full and had communication with the merchant throughout the past year. After multiple delays due to the vendor taking "approved time off", it became difficult to reach the vendor through email. At one point, she told me the order was shipped, which ended up being false. Weeks later, after realizing the order was not shipped, I tried to address this over email and required an honest update for the order. The merchant ultimately canceled my order and said that a refund was issued. The order was canceled on 7/16 and I still have not received a refund, leading me to believe that I have been scammed.

What are my options for recovering this money? I have sent two emails in the last week to the merchant trying to figure out what is going on, both unanswered. It's clear now that this merchant is not acting in good faith and trying to scam me. I am unable to report this to my bank, since it's been over a year since the charge was made. Shopify has not been able to assist in any way, as their customer service is functionally nonexistent (I was also not provided a valid order confirmation URL required to submit "Issue with an order" form). 

Does anyone have any advice on how to proceed? I am prepared to take this issue to small claims court if needed, but obviously would prefer an alternative solution.

[shahrozbabar5]

Hi @catherinec10 

1. Document Everything: Keep records of all communications and transactions.

2. File a Complaint with Consumer Protection Agencies:

   • Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your country’s consumer protection agency.

3. Check Payment Method Protections:

   • Even if it's past a year, some credit card companies might offer chargeback options for fraudulent transactions. Contact your card issuer.

4. Consider Small Claims Court:

   • Prepare to present all your documented evidence in court.

5. Social Media & Online Reviews:

   • Publicly sharing your experience may prompt a response.

If it resolves your issue, please mark my answer as a solution or if you still need assistance, let me know. Thank you.