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Investigation Report

Generated on Apr 8, 2026

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Pokemon TCG Mega Evolution Perfect Order LOT (2) PC ETB (2) Booster Boxes SEALED [eBay/Probstein123]

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/389858319199
Geo: United States
Website: Site icon
Category: Ebay
Recommendation
Caution
Overall Summary
Suspicious
  Why we think so? 

This eBay listing for a sealed Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Perfect Order lot is sold by probstein123 (Probstein Auctions), a well-known, high-volume eBay seller based in New Jersey. Probstein123 has a 99.5% positive feedback score and a long sales history with nearly 16 million items sold, indicating a highly active account. Despite this reputation, there are substantial community allegations of authenticity issues, misrepresented trading cards, and irregular bidding behavior tied to Probstein's operations. These claims come from YouTube investigations and collector forums and include cases of mislabeled or inauthentic cards and alleged shill bidding. No formal eBay sanctions or court actions have been documented, but caution is warranted. The listed item is significantly underpriced (AUD $4.25) compared to market rates, raising the likelihood of error or risk (average prices for similar lots range $500+ USD). The listing description is sparse, and returns are not accepted. If considering a purchase, independently verify the seller identity, review feedback details, and avoid sending payment off-platform. Summary: The seller is prolific but controversial. The listing price is a notable red flag. Anti-scam best practices apply—proceed only if you have strong confidence in authentication and shipping logistics. 🛡️

Confidence Score Our overall confidence rating for this entity based on public signals, activity, and risk checks.
48%

Risk Insights

⚠️

Suspiciously Low Price

  • AUD $4.25 listed for product bundle worth $500+ USD on all major platforms.
  • Such pricing is nearly always error, scam, or bait.
  • Avoid unless clarified conclusively with seller.
📦

Seller Is Longstanding but Controversial

  • Probstein Auctions has sold millions of items with high feedback.
  • But many forums and collectors document misrepresentation cases.
  • No formal eBay ban, but reputation is mixed.
🚫

No Returns Increases Risk

  • Buyer cannot use 'change of mind' or 'not as described' returns through eBay.
  • If product is not as listed, main remedy is eBay/PayPal dispute.
  • Greater risk compared to sellers allowing returns.

Category Scores

Red Flags & Warnings

  • Price is anomalously low for the items advertised—vastly under market.
  • Widespread, persistent accusations of misrepresented/counterfeit products and auction irregularities from the seller, though based mostly on community discussion and not legal proceedings.
  • No returns accepted—reduces buyer safety.

Detailed Checks & Insights

0-100 Scale

Seller Identity and longevity

Score: 90
Passed

"The identity aligns with historic operations under 'Probstein Auctions' and is not a newly created or obscure account."

Reason: Probstein123 is a long-standing, high-volume eBay seller with a well-documented presence and consistent username.

Seller Reputation and Feedback Analysis

Score: 65
Failed

"Buyer should note ongoing forum and YouTube claims of inconsistent authentication and potential manipulation."

Reason: While the feedback score is very high (99.5%), there is significant collector-community controversy and allegations about the seller's business practices over a long period.

Product Authenticity and Price Consistency

Score: 45
Failed

"Such deep underpricing is strongly associated with scams or errors. Listing is flagged in almost all best-practice e-commerce risk models."

Reason: This listing shows an extreme price anomaly (about $4 AUD for multiple sealed Pokémon boxes), which is inconsistent with average reputable market prices (> $500 USD).

Listing Description Detail and Photo Verification

Score: 45
Failed

"Legitimate sellers of high-value sealed collectibles typically provide detailed close-up images, lot composition breakdowns, and documentation."

Reason: Listing lacks in-depth photos and extended description, which increases risk for high-value collectibles; may impede buyer's ability to verify authenticity.

Return and Buyer Protection Policies

Score: 40
Failed

"eBay buyer protection still applies for non-delivery or gross misdescription, but return denial is a negative."

Reason: No returns accepted on this listing. This increases risk if the item is not as described and removes an important recourse avenue for buyers.

Legal, Regulatory, and Business Standing

Score: 50
Failed

"Business is recognized and not fly-by-night, but historic pattern of complaints remains unaddressed in formal channels."

Reason: No known regulatory actions against Probstein Auctions, but years of allegations may expose buyers to risk in event of dispute.

Your Next Steps

  • 1

    Check the full feedback profile for probstein123 for recent negative reviews and patterns of complaint.

  • 2

    Contact the seller through eBay's messaging for clarification about the unusually low price and the specifics of what will be shipped.

  • 3

    Do not send payment or communications outside of eBay systems.

  • 4

    Be extra cautious of any similar listings from other sellers using Probstein images—impostor/fake listings have been reported.

  • 5

    If you proceed, use a payment method with buyer protection (PayPal, credit card), and be aware eBay's coverage for non-receipt or misrepresented goods.

Key Evidence & Citations

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