Fraud Recovery Protocol

Discovering that a prized piece of memorabilia is a forgery is devastating. However, immediate and documented action can often lead to financial recovery. Do not confront the seller without a prepared legal standing.

Phase 1: Secure the Evidence

Do not alter the item: Do not attempt to remove stickers, holograms, or ink.
Digitize all communications: Screenshot every email, text message, and auction listing associated with the purchase.
Establish a baseline: Use the UV Light Checker and document the results with high-resolution photography.

Phase 2: Formal Rejection

You must obtain a formal letter of rejection from a recognized third-party authenticator. A personal opinion or a forum post is not legally actionable. Submit the item to a major firm (e.g., PSA, JSA, Beckett) for an official "Failed Authentication" notice.

If you have an existing digital provenance passport, append the failure notice to the ledger.

Phase 3: Financial Recourse

Credit Card / Payment Processor (0-180 Days)

Initiate a chargeback for "Item Not As Described." Provide the formal rejection letter. This is the fastest route to recovery.

Auction House Guarantee (varies)

Major houses offer limited guarantees. Review their terms of service immediately. You often only have 30 days post-auction to challenge authenticity.

Law Enforcement (High Value / Serial Fraud)

If the loss exceeds $5,000 or the seller is a known entity, file a report with the FBI Art Crime Team and local authorities.