Fake Switch 2 Auctions Flood eBay, Target Scalpers

Nintendo enthusiasts are fighting back against scalpers by creating fake listings for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 on auction platforms like eBay. These fake posts flood the site, pushing overpriced scalper listings further down the search results, making it harder for potential buyers to locate genuine ones. Pre-orders for the Switch 2 have surfaced across various sites, with prices ranging anywhere from $500 to an eye-watering $2,000.

In response to the pre-order delays and inflated pricing, U.S.-based Nintendo fans have united to tackle scalpers collectively. As the June 5 launch date approaches, scalpers can legally list their overpriced consoles as long as they specify that shipping will occur within 40 business days of purchase. To counteract this, fans are posting fake listings at or below retail price points, ensuring legitimate scalper offers remain buried under countless irrelevant posts.

Consider this example: a listing titled "Nintendo Switch v2 video games console PREORDER" asks for $450, which initially seems reasonable. However, upon reading the fine print, it reveals that buyers will receive a PNG image of the Switch 2 instead of the actual console. Listings like these often include "read description" in their titles to distinguish them from real scalper posts.

Another $550 listing humorously warns buyers not to purchase unless they are bots or willing to donate the amount. The seller promises to send a laser-printed image of the Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle, emphasizing there will be no refunds or cancellations. Similarly, a $499.99 auction states clearly that buyers will receive a folded printed picture sent via standard mail. Again, refunds are explicitly denied, with the message "F the bots" appended at the end.

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The Nintendo Switch 2 was originally scheduled to launch on June 5, 2025, priced at $449.99. However, the U.S. pre-order date was delayed due to import tariffs imposed by President Trump, which disrupted financial markets. Consequently, pre-orders finally went live on April 24, maintaining the same price point. For more details, refer to IGN's comprehensive Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.

Recently, Nintendo addressed compatibility concerns regarding the new GameCube controller, acknowledging possible issues when used to play modern Nintendo Switch games.

Note: [ttpp]