How much money has been lost to Pokemon card scams in Singapore?

Since October 2025, at least S$958,000 has been lost across 477 reported cases of e-commerce scams involving Pokemon trading cards in Singapore, according to Singapore Police.

How do Pokemon trading card scams work in Singapore?

Scammers post pre-order listings for Pokemon cards on platforms like Carousell, collect deposits via PayNow or bank transfer, then either become uncontactable or give delivery excuses. Victims never receive the cards.

How can I avoid Pokemon card scams when buying online?

Only buy from authorised sellers, use secure payment methods like cash on delivery, never make advance payments, be wary of unusually large discounts, and verify sellers through the ScamShield App by calling 1799.

What should I do if I have been scammed buying Pokemon cards?

Immediately call your bank to block any fraudulent transactions, make a police report, and report the suspicious listing through the platform reporting function. You can also call the ScamShield Helpline at 1799.

S$958,000 Lost in Pokemon Trading Card Scams Since October 2025 Singapore Police Warning

Singapore Police issue urgent warning after 477 cases of Pokemon trading card scams since October 2025, with total losses reaching S$958,000. Prevention tips and ScamShield advice for TCG collectors.

S$958,000 Lost in Pokemon Trading Card Scams Since October 2025

Singapore Police have issued an urgent warning to the public after a surge in e-commerce scams involving Pokemon trading cards. Since October 2025, at least 477 cases have been reported, with total losses amounting to at least S$958,000.

The advisory comes ahead of the highly anticipated January 2026 release of new Pokemon trading card sets, including "Mega Evolution – Ascended Heroes", which authorities fear could fuel further scam activity.

How the Scam Works

The scam follows a consistent pattern:

1. Victims encounter pre-order listings for Pokemon trading cards on online platforms such as Carousell
2. Scammers convince victims to make deposits via PayNow or bank transfers to pre-order products
3. After receiving payment, the seller either becomes uncontactable or makes excuses for delivery delays
4. Victims only realise they have been scammed when products never arrive

Police Crime Prevention Advice

The Singapore Police have outlined several precautions for TCG collectors and buyers:

When purchasing trading cards online:

Only purchase from authorised sellers on established online platforms and physical retail stores
Use secure payment methods such as cash on delivery, allowing you to inspect products before paying
Never make advance payments before receiving or inspecting products
Be wary of red flags such as large discounts offered for faster transactions
Do not transfer money or disclose personal information, banking credentials, or one-time passwords

ScamShield Protection

The police encourage all members of the public to adopt the ADD-CHECK-TELL framework:

ADD — Install the ScamShield App and enable security features including two-factor authentication (2FA) for bank accounts. Set transaction limits on internet banking and consider adding the Money Lock feature to protect savings
CHECK — Call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 if unsure about a potential scam. Use the ScamShield App to verify suspicious phone numbers, messages, and website links
TELL — Report suspicious listings through in-app reporting functions. If you suspect you have been scammed, call your bank immediately to block fraudulent transactions and make a police report

How TCG.SG Helps Protect Buyers

At TCG.SG, we take scam prevention seriously. Our platform provides several safety features:

Verified seller profiles with transaction history and reviews
AI-powered listing analysis that flags suspicious prices and descriptions
In-app messaging so conversations stay on-platform
Listing reporting for the community to flag suspicious activity
No advance payment required for browsing and comparing prices

We strongly encourage all Singapore TCG collectors to use trusted platforms and exercise caution when dealing with unknown sellers, especially for high-value pre-orders.

For more information on scams, visit [scamshield.gov.sg](https://www.scamshield.gov.sg/).