How do I avoid fake Pokémon cards on eBay Canada?

Buy the seller, not just the card. On eBay Canada, the safest approach is to stick with established sellers, clear real photos, realistic prices, and eBay checkout.

Quick checklist

• Seller history: Prefer strong feedback and a history of trading cards. Read negative reviews for words like fake, proxy, reprint, resealed, or not authentic.
• Listing language: Avoid listings that say proxy, replica, reproduction, reprint, custom, or not tournament legal. Be wary of vague lines like “I don’t know if it’s real” or “selling as-is.”
• Photos: Use only listings with clear front and back photos of the exact card. Compare font, spacing, holo pattern, borders, and card back to trusted references.
• Price: Be suspicious of deals far below market value.
• Slabs: Fake graded cards exist too. Check the certification number on the grading company’s site and make sure the label matches the card.
• Sealed product: Booster packs, boxes, and ETBs are often resealed. Watch for odd wrapping, damaged shrink, or unusually low prices.
• Payment: Stay on eBay and use protected payment methods. Avoid e-transfer, Friends & Family, crypto, or off-platform deals.

Canadian tip: Compare prices in CAD and include shipping, tax, duties, and exchange rate. A “cheap” card can stop being cheap fast.

Best rule: if the photos are blurry, the wording is vague, or the seller feels pushy, skip it.