Singapore police warn of 477 Pokémon card scam cases since October 2025, with losses nearing S$1 million
Police have warned Pokémon trading card collectors to stay alert for e-commerce scams ahead of a major January launch, after at least 477 cases were reported since October 2025, with losses amounting to at least S$958,000.
- Police reported at least 477 Pokémon trading card scam cases since October 2025, with total losses of at least S$958,000, often involving fake pre-orders on online platforms.
- Collectors were advised to buy only from authorised sellers, use secure payment methods, and avoid upfront transfers or deals offering unusually large discounts.
SINGAPORE: The police have reminded members of the public to remain vigilant against e-commerce scams involving Pokémon trading cards, ahead of a major new card set launch in January.
Collectors have been urged to exercise caution as the Mega Evolution – Ascended Heroes set from the popular trading card game is scheduled for global release on 30 January 2026.
In an advisory issued on 18 December, the police said at least 477 cases of Pokémon trading card scams have been reported since October 2025, with total losses amounting to at least S$958,000.
According to the police, victims typically encounter pre-order listings for Pokémon trading cards on online platforms such as Carousell.
After expressing interest, victims are persuaded to make initial deposits via PayNow or bank transfers to secure the pre-orders.
The scam is usually uncovered when the products fail to arrive or when the sellers become uncontactable.
“We would like to remind members of the public to only purchase Pokémon Trading Cards from authorised sellers on online platforms and at physical retail stores,” the police said.
The police advised consumers to use secure payment options such as cash-on-delivery, which allow buyers to inspect items before making payment.
Members of the public were also cautioned against making payments before receiving or verifying products.
Shoppers were further urged to watch out for common e-commerce scam red flags, including unusually large discounts offered to pressure faster transactions.
The police warned against transferring money or disclosing personal information, internet banking credentials or one-time passwords to unknown parties.
Man charged over alleged Pokémon card scam
In a related case, a 29-year-old man accused of running a large-scale online scam involving limited-edition Pokémon trading cards has been charged in a Singapore district court.
Eugene Kwek Yi Jun was charged on 3 December with one count of cheating linked to a victim, following his arrest on 1 December.
Investigations are ongoing into more than 100 suspected scam cases, with reported losses of at least S$80,000.
Under Section 420 of Singapore’s Penal Code, the offence of cheating carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine.
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