I went through this with an American seller who had a bad experience in the past with Paypal and refused to use it. She wanted to use a credit card and wondered if I had a way of accepting one off-site ~ I did not (and besides, there is the issue of fee avoidance, of course!).
I signed up with Propay:
http://www.propay.com/. I think it cost $50 for a year membership. It was very fast and easy to sign up. The buyer purchased the item through Etsy (selected 'Other' for payment type) and I sent her an invoice through Propay. She said it was very easy and intuitive to pay with her credit card once she received the invoice. I didn't deal with her credit card at all. Frankly, the whole procedure was very similar to sending an invoice through Paypal, but I think it's a bit easier to use.
It was a good experience and I'm glad to have another option just in case. She was not the first or the last customer to complain about Paypal and insist on using a credit card. I've personally never had a problem with Paypal but I do my best to accommodate anyone who wants to send me money! :)
Your issue doesn't sound like a scam to me. I am guessing that a customer who wishes to use a credit card won't be interested in taking the time to send you an international check. Best of luck to you!
