Counterfeit Pokémon cards are common online and at flea markets. The good news is that most fakes are easy to spot once you know what to look for. Use these eight checks, comparing against a card you know is real whenever possible.

1. Check the Print Quality

Genuine cards have crisp, sharp printing. Fakes often look blurry, washed out, or overly saturated, and the artwork may be slightly pixelated.

2. Look for Spelling and Font Errors

Read the attack names, HP, and text carefully. Misspellings, odd spacing, a missing é in Pokémon, or a font that looks different from your real cards are strong signs of a fake.

3. Compare the Card Back

The back of a real card has a rich blue swirl with a consistent, even tone. Fake backs are often too light, too purple, or blotchy, and the Poké Ball logo may be off center.

4. Do the Light Test

Real Pokémon cards have a thin dark layer inside the card stock, so very little light passes through. Many fakes let a lot of light through when you hold them up to a phone flashlight.

5. Feel the Card Stock

Genuine cards feel firm with a slight flexibility. Fakes are often flimsy, too glossy, or noticeably thinner or thicker than a real card.

6. Inspect the Holo and Texture

Modern ultra rare and illustration rare cards have a fine textured surface and a specific holo pattern. Fakes are often smooth and shiny all over, with a rainbow effect in the wrong places.

7. Check the Set Symbol and Card Number

Every real card has a set symbol and card number, such as 199/189 for a secret rare. Make sure the number fits the set and that the rarity symbol matches the card.

8. Be Wary of Deals That Look Too Good

Bulk lots of only ultra rare cards at a very low price are almost always fake. Buying factory sealed product from a trusted retailer is the safest way to avoid counterfeits.

Buy Authentic Pokémon Cards

Every product at TCGFront is 100% authentic and ships factory sealed. Shop Pokémon single cards or sealed booster boxes, and read our guide on how to spot a resealed booster box. Our TCG FAQ has more tips.