Recognising and Avoiding Scams

PokéSales is designed to create a safe community for buying, selling, and trading Pokémon TCG products. However, like any online marketplace, scams can occur. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself from fraudulent activity. Below are some common scams and tips to avoid them.

1. Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals

• If a high-value card is being sold at an extremely low price, it might be a scam.

• Scammers often use urgency tactics, saying the deal is only available for a short time.

2. Fake Payment Confirmations

• A buyer might claim they’ve sent payment and show a fake receipt.

• Always check your account to confirm that funds have been received before sending an item.

3. Bait-and-Switch Scams

• A seller might send a different card than what was advertised.

• Always request clear, up-to-date photos of the exact item before purchasing.

4. Phishing Attempts

• Be cautious of messages or emails that ask for your login credentials or payment details.

• PokéSales will never ask for your password via email.

5. Overpayment Scams

• A buyer might send more money than required and ask for a refund of the excess amount.

• These payments are often fraudulent and will be reversed after you send the 'refund.'

6. Off-Platform Transactions

• Scammers might ask to move the conversation to email, social media, or private messages.

• Keep all transactions and discussions on PokéSales where possible for added security.

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify user ratings and reviews before making a deal.

• Request timestamped photos or videos of the item being sold.

• Use secure payment methods like PayPal Goods & Services for buyer protection.

• Trust your instincts—if something feels off, reconsider the transaction.

• Report suspicious activity to PokéSales so we can investigate.

By following these tips, you can navigate the platform safely and avoid potential scams. If you suspect fraudulent activity, use our reporting system to help keep the community secure.