You've Been Scammed ... What Happens Now? Maybe, Nothing.

That's part of the problem in the hobby

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So what now?

That’s the question I keep asking after a disastrous two weeks of scams and fraud in the hobby. From the Logan Paul fake Pokemon case to Marx Cards taking money for grading and not paying PSA, it’s been a bit of a dumpster fire.

Although the notorious players have been outted, there are those who still stand up for them because they’re “nice guys.”

Companies like PSA had to change its rules due to some of these issues, which makes it a problem for everyone else.

But what else?

Are there any repercussions for scamming collectors? Other than having a no good, very bad day is there anything more than can or will happen? Will authorities get involved? Are scammers going to pay with more than just their reputation?

I don’t really know, but it’s frustrating to watch as people walk away without facing harsh consequences for their actions. The bigger entities with lots of cash are able to get lawyers involved to recoup money, but that doesn’t help the average collector who doesn’t have a war chest at their disposal.

Instead, they are relying on each other to give them tips and insights in how to get their money back. It’s been nice to see collectors come together, but it shouldn’t just be on them.

Even with collectors coming together, the next scam is right around the corner or happening as we speak until it gets exposed. And that’s because there is nothing to deter anyone other than being called out on social media.

There haven’t been any significant consequences.

It’s important for collectors be vigilant with their cards and their money. So many new businesses are popping up to offer services for various arms of the hobby. Whether it’s for grading, selling, valuation, someone new pops up every week to tell you how they can do it better.

Here’s my tip: Don’t just give your assets (cards, money, etc.) away. Go with trusted companies, those who have been in this industry before it exploded. There are reputable and trust worthy folks out there. Do your homework. And if then you’re still not comfortable, do it yourself.

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Would you buy half a card?

An interesting auction has popped up with half a T206 Honus Wagner up for sale at SCP Auctions. This card is super interesting because it’s been slabbed “Genuine” by PSA with a cert number of 00000002.

It’s already up to around $300K with over a week left. And it’s only half a card!

Is this something you would want to own?

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eBay Launching Authentication service, I have questions

eBay is launching an authentication service for raw trading cards. It’s going to start with ungraded cards bought at $750 or more, and will not include autographs or relic cards to start. In time, they will add those to the program and lower the value to $250.

Sellers will have to send the card to the authentication facility, which is seemingly being run by CSG, where they will be authenticated, have a tamper-proof sticker affixed to the case, and then sent to the buyer. If the card is deemed inauthentic or has issues not in the listing, the buyer will get a refund.

It will take extra time to get your card to you since there is now an extra step involved. But that’s part of the price of peace of mind.

I feel this is a good step. Something that people have wanted or even needed, but it’s not a step far enough. Currently, there is no cost associated with this, but the language was unclear if there will be a cost eventually.

Also, what happens to the buyer if the card is found to be inauthentic? Are there any repercussions?

And with so many people handling the card, this just seems like opportunity for it to get lost in transit or damaged.

What do you think about the new service?