Why eBay Banned Golden Numbers and SIM Cards?

Why eBay Banned Golden Numbers and SIM Cards?

🚫 Why eBay Doesn’t Allow the Sale of Golden Numbers or SIM Cards Anymore

If you’ve tried listing a golden number SIM card or any mobile number on eBay recently, chances are your listing was flagged or removed, sometimes without much explanation. So what’s going on?

Here’s everything you need to know about eBay’s policy on selling golden numbers and what your options are in 2025.

📵 What Is a Golden Number?

A golden number (also known as a VIP number, easy-to-remember number, or premium mobile number) is a phone number with a repeating or patterned sequence. The rationale for regulatory oversight is as follows:

  • 0777 1111 222
  • 0700 700 7000
  • 0789 789 7890

The valuation of these strings is elevated due to their capacity to elevate corporate identity, denote exclusivity, and facilitate future liquidations appealing to enterprises, enthusiasts, or celebrities oriented toward impression management.

❗ eBay’s Policy: Why No Listings?

As of recent years, eBay no longer allows the sale of any mobile numbers or SIM cards that are active, preloaded, or used for communication. This includes:

  • Golden numbers or VIP SIM cards
  • Pay as you go or contract SIMs
  • Mobile numbers of any kind (even new, unused)
  • Phone numbers attached to WhatsApp or business use

⚖️ Why?

eBay considers mobile numbers to fall under prohibited digital goods or non transferable services. Key concerns include:

  • ❌ Security: Used SIMs can be tied to identity fraud or account recovery scams
  • ❌ Ownership: Phone numbers remain the property of the network, not the seller
  • ❌ Policy compliance: Numbers can be misused for illegal or spam-related activity
  • ❌ Verification: eBay has no way to confirm the legitimacy or availability of a mobile number

🔍 What Happens If You Try to Sell One?

  • eBay may remove your listing automatically
  • You may get a warning or policy violation strike
  • Repeat attempts can lead to account restrictions or suspension

Even listings that say "new number", "unused", or "for collection only" can be flagged by automated systems.

🛑 Official eBay Policy Reference (2025):

eBay’s Prohibited and Restricted Items policy has a section covering:

“Mobile phone numbers, calling cards, and prepaid SIM cards are prohibited for reasons relating to ownership, security, and the challenge of transferring rights.”

✅ What Are Your Alternatives?

While eBay doesn't allow these listings, you still have options if you're looking to buy or sell golden numbers:

1. Use a Dedicated Marketplace

  • Platforms like Goldennumber.co.uk , Gumtree, or private golden number shops are more suited for these sales
  • Many have payment protection and ID verification processes

2. Initiate an Online Shop

  • To sell your assets in a trusted manner and most probably on Shopify, Woo Commerce, or a fabricated site so that you can close your very own online store quickly.
  • You can include SEO, buyer information, and even checkout integrations

💼 Need Help Building Your Own Website or Marketing Strategy?

If you're looking to create your own website, set up professional product photos, or launch a social media marketing strategy we recommend BuildifyGo.com.

They specialise in:

🔧 Website setup & eCommerce (Shopify, WordPress & more)

📸 Product photography & content design

📲 Social media growth strategies

💡 Branding support at affordable prices

👉 Visit BuildifyGo.com to get started.

3. Social Media & Niche Forums

  • Telegram groups, Facebook Marketplace, or local WhatsApp reseller communities still trade numbers
  • Use caution and always verify payment security

🧠 Final Thoughts

While eBay used to be a hotspot for golden number trading, times have changed. Their updated policy aims to protect both buyers and the platform from potential misuse but it also means sellers must adapt.

If you're a collector or seller of premium mobile numbers, look into specialised platforms and independent eCommerce solutions instead.

Want to start your own golden number store or need help setting one up? Contact us we help traders move beyond eBay and build reliable, policy compliant stores.

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