The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a warning about new scams targeting Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) retailers, as criminals develop increasingly sophisticated ways to steal valuable cards.

The FBI's Newark, New Jersey, office has identified a fraud scheme targeting local card shops and Pokémon card vendors. Seven businesses have reportedly been affected by scams that allow criminals to obtain high-value cards without actually paying for them.

One method involves criminals attempting to pay for expensive cards through contactless mobile payments. When the transaction fails, they ask the cashier to manually enter the credit card information. The payment initially appears successful, but weeks later, the store discovers that the card was stolen or compromised.

By the time retailers realize the transaction was fraudulent, the criminals have often already resold the cards.

Another emerging scam involves a mobile app allegedly operated by a criminal network that stores multiple stolen credit card numbers. Criminals hold their phones against payment terminals while the app cycles through different card details until one is approved.

Because the process can take time, the FBI warns that scammers frequently attempt to distract store employees.

In one reported incident, a man attempted to sell a box of trading cards while an accomplice reached over the counter and stole additional merchandise.

Financial scams are not the only concern for Pokémon card retailers. The FBI has also highlighted a growing number of physical thefts targeting valuable trading cards.

Some vendors have been robbed at gunpoint while attending conventions and other events. Retail stores have also experienced break-ins, including incidents involving forced entry to steal valuable collections.

To help protect businesses, the FBI recommends that trading card retailers consider installing security cameras, alarms, and panic buttons.

Additional precautions include:

• Having multiple employees available at the register to help identify distractions.
• Requesting photo identification for certain credit card purchases.
• Maintaining awareness of suspicious behavior during high-value transactions.
• Improving store security to protect valuable merchandise.

Although the FBI's warning primarily focuses on retailers, individual Pokémon collectors should also remain cautious when purchasing cards through third-party sellers.

Prices that appear unusually low may indicate fraudulent activity, while increasingly convincing counterfeit cards make it more difficult to distinguish authentic collectibles from fakes.

Collectors are encouraged to carefully evaluate sellers, verify card authenticity, and exercise caution when purchasing expensive cards outside established retail channels.

As Pokémon cards continue to attract significant interest from collectors and investors, the FBI's warning highlights the importance of protecting both valuable collections and the businesses that support the hobby.