
'Let the criers cry': 42,000 Pokémon TCG Phantasmal Flames products swiped by scalper group due to a 'massive error' on Pokémon Center
A scalper group exploited a checkout flaw on the Pokémon Center, leading to the purchase of 42,000 items from the upcoming Phantasmal Flames Pokémon card expansion.
When products from the upcoming Phantasmal Flames expansion were loaded onto the Pokémon Center site for sale, scalper groups quickly exploited a flaw in the checkout system.
In under an hour, a group known as Hidden Society managed to purchase around 42,000 sets of Pokémon cards, taking advantage of a massive error on the Pokémon Center’s side. This was not a pre-order event, but rather a launch preparation—creating a feast for scalpers.
While the sheer number of products bought is alarming, it reflects a common trend where fans of the game struggle to access new releases due to the actions of scalping groups. These events highlight the ongoing challenges faced by collectors and fans, who often find themselves at the mercy of those looking to profit from popular hobbies.