The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a warning regarding new scams targeting Pokémon trading card vendors and shops, following an increase in high-value card theft. The FBI's Newark, New Jersey, office has identified a scheme where fraudsters attempt to purchase expensive cards using fraudulent payment methods.
In one common tactic, thieves try to pay with a contactless mobile payment that ultimately fails. They then persuade cashiers to manually enter a credit card number, which initially appears successful. However, weeks later, the businesses are informed the transaction was made with a stolen or compromised credit card, by which time the cards have typically been resold.
Another prevalent method involves a mobile application that cycles through multiple stolen credit card numbers until one is approved. The FBI notes that these criminals often attempt to distract cashiers while this process occurs. In some instances, an accomplice may create a diversion, such as attempting to sell a box of cards, while another individual steals additional items.
The FBI also acknowledges that simpler methods of theft, including armed robberies outside conventions and break-ins at card shops, are on the rise. To combat these issues, the agency recommends that tabletop establishments implement security measures like cameras, alarms, and panic buttons. They also suggest having multiple employees at the register to monitor for distractions and to request photo identification for certain credit card purchases.
Collectors purchasing cards from third-party resellers are also advised to exercise caution, particularly if a deal seems too good to be true. The FBI's warning comes amid concerns about increasingly convincing counterfeit cards, adding another layer of risk for collectors in the secondary market.