Confirm the product identity
Compare the product number, barcode, maker name, release photos, and included accessories with an official listing or trusted catalog.
Japanese packaging may carry distributor stickers or campaign marks, so differences are not automatically evidence of a fake.
Study the actual item
Prefer listings with clear photos of every side, seals, the underside, and any damage. Stock images alone tell you very little about the item you will receive.
Look for inconsistent fonts, soft printing, rough paint, incorrect logos, or accessories that do not match official images.
Treat the seller as evidence
Review past sales, descriptions, and how consistently the seller photographs condition. Ask direct questions when something is missing.
A price far below the normal market deserves extra research, especially for frequently copied characters and limited releases.