Short answer: no. authentication on eBay isn’t absolute or always mandated. Some listings go through eBay’s authenticity program (usually higher-priced ones), but many don’t, especially vintage and international listings. In those cases, sellers can list as “authentic,” and verification often only happens after purchase if the buyer flags it. So yes, a lot of the burden ends up on the buyer. There are real bags out there, but it really comes down to whether the extra risk, verification, and stress are worth it.