You Might Need A Face Scan To Buy Pokemon Cards Soon, Thanks To Scalpers
GameSpot · 2026-07-27
The Pokémon Company is implementing a facial recognition system in its Japanese Pokémon card shops to combat scalping and ensure a fair shopping environment. This measure will deny entry to any individual detected attempting to enter a store more than once in a single day or receiving multiple entry tickets, according to new guidelines. The surge in Pokémon card popularity, particularly throughout the 2010s, has made scalping a lucrative venture, consequently making it difficult for regular players to acquire new stock, as scalpers often deplete inventory immediately upon release. This facial recognition initiative is currently exclusive to Japanese outlets as part of a broader effort to regulate the trading card market.
*The full article also explores the broader implications of such technological interventions in retail and their potential impact on consumer privacy.*