MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — The Martin County Sheriff’s Office is warning collectors to watch for counterfeit Pokémon trading cards after two local residents reported losing more than $1,200 in recent purchases.
The reports were filed within the past few weeks, according to the sheriff’s office. In both cases, the buyers believed they were purchasing authentic Pokémon cards but later learned the cards were not legitimate.
Although Pokémon cards are often viewed as children’s collectibles, rare cards can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Their potential value has made them a target for counterfeiters and online scammers, authorities said.
Fraudulent cards may be offered through online marketplaces, social media pages and other sales platforms. The sheriff’s office cautioned buyers not to assume an item is authentic simply because it appears legitimate or is listed on a well-known website.
Before making a purchase, buyers should research the card’s typical value and investigate the seller’s reputation. Deals priced far below market value should be treated with caution.
For expensive cards, authorities recommend having the item examined by a reputable trading-card expert or professional authentication service before payment is made. Buyers meeting sellers in person should also take time to inspect the cards carefully.
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The sheriff’s office noted that recovering money can be difficult once a transaction is complete, particularly when the item is later found to be counterfeit.
Residents conducting in-person transactions may also use the designated exchange parking spaces at the Martin County Sheriff’s Office. The spaces are monitored by cameras 24 hours a day.