No one is perfect but you don't need to lie....

LOTS of stuff goes on behind the scenes. Unfortunately not all are up front about it. Bottom line is it is their part so they can and will do what they want. That shifter I bet was sold behind the scenes. It was a good price and seller was unsure of what he had until a few members chimed in(myself included) and described what it was.
Good luck, hey my shifter may be for sale.... but comes with the car and a $20k price tag lol