Amazon accused of illegally using eBay’s internal messaging system

EBay has sued Amazon for poaching sellers. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

EBay has sued Amazon for poaching sellers. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

eBay filed a lawsuit against Amazon on Wednesday that accused the online giant of illegally poaching sellers using eBay’s internal messaging system.

The lawsuit says Amazon “perpetuated a scheme to infiltrate and exploit eBay’s internal member email system” in order to “recruit high-value eBay sellers to Amazon.” The system allows sellers to communicate with one another, with the company and with customers.

“The breadth and scope of Amazon’s conduct is startling—involving large numbers of Amazon reps, targeting many hundreds of eBay sellers, and spanning several countries overseas and many states in the United States,” eBay attorneys said in the complaint.

»PHOTOS: Luxury Oakwood home renovated in 2003 on market

The suit filed in Santa Clara County in California alleges that Amazon representatives have established eBay seller accounts to recruit the sellers since 2015. The online marketplace had previously sent a letter to Amazon to cease the activity and provide information about the conduct.

Amazon at the time said it was investigating the accusation, but it didn’t stop the conduct or provide information, eBay said in the complaint.

»RELATED: Major mall spaces emptying as holiday shopping approaches

Both Amazon and eBay rely on independent merchants to provide products to sell on the websites.

While Amazon’s sales have taken off, eBay has struggled. While it saw a 9 percent increase in revenue after the first quarter of 2018, it operating expenses also increased, causing the company to lay off 274 workers.

FIVE FAST READS

Local mall announces new store coming two days in a row

New store to open at Beavercreek mall

Amazon boosts wages for area Whole Foods, Amazon workers

New store opening in former Fairborn Kroger space

New Centerville arts, crafts store announces opening date, giveaways

About the Author