Scammers target Pokemon card collectors on Carousell and Facebook, more than $163,000 lost
The police have issued an alert regarding a surge in e-commerce scams targeting fans of the Pokemon trading card game.
Since January 2025, at least 53 cases have been reported, with victims collectively losing at least $163,000.
The scams typically involve listings for Pokemon cards on online marketplaces like Carousell and Facebook.
Scammers then lure potential buyers to communicate via messaging platforms such as Telegram or WhatsApp, often offering seemingly attractive deals.
PHOTO: SPF
After confirming orders, victims are instructed to make payment through PayNow or bank transfers.
Victims would realise they had been scammed after the promised cards never materialised, and sellers become uncontactable.
The police are urging the public to exercise caution when purchasing items from non-authorised platforms.
They advise buyers to keep all communication within the original platform and, where possible, to transact in person.
This allows for inspection of the goods before any payment is made.
Members of the public are also reminded to be wary of common e-commerce scam red flags.
These include unusually large discounts offered for quick transactions and requests for payment to be made to unknown individuals.
The police emphasise that personal information, internet banking details, and one-time passwords (OTPs) should never be shared with anyone.
For more information on scams, call the ScamShield Helpline at 1799 or visit www.scamshield.gov.sg.
