{
  "id": 259774,
  "title": "Target is Slicing Open Pokémon Card Boxes Before They're Sold in a Bid to Deter Scalpers, Fans Say",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/07/target-is-slicing-open-pokemon-card-boxes-before-theyre-sold-in-a-bid",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-07T09:40:21.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IGN",
    "slug": "ign",
    "url": "https://www.ign.com/articles/target-is-slicing-open-pokmon-card-boxes-before-theyre-sold-in-a-bid-to-deter-scalpers-fans-say"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Target stores are reportedly removing shrink wrap from boxes of new Pokémon cards in an effort to discourage scalpers from purchasing and reselling the cards. Fans have observed Target employees fully removing the plastic wrap from card boxes in stores, as well as receiving cut-open card boxes when ordering online. While Target has not officially commented on the practice, fans believe it is a tactic to deter scalpers who buy cards for resale purposes. Card boxes without their packaging are less valuable to actual collectors, as they cannot prove the cards inside haven't had their rarest pulls removed. Fans' reactions to the practice have been mixed, with some praising Target for trying to combat scalpers and others expressing concerns about potential damages and increased prices.",
  "summary": "Target is reportedly cutting the shrink wrap on boxes of new Pokémon cards to deter scalpers, who buy stock in bulk simply for the resale market.",
  "key_points": [
    "Target removes shrink wrap from Pokémon card boxes.",
    "Fans observe employees opening boxes in stores and online.",
    "Practice aims to deter scalpers and collectors."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}