#Japan #Tokyo #Authentication #Yahoo Auctions #Sneaker Dunk

Yahoo! Auctions Collaborates with Sneaker Dunk for Enhanced Authentication Services

In an effort to bolster the integrity and security of online transactions, Yahoo! Auctions, Japan's largest internet auction platform operated by LINE Yahoo Corporation, has initiated a collaboration with Sneaker Dunk (SODA Corporation). This partnership aims to provide a comprehensive authentication service for fashion items, accessories, watches, and trading cards starting today.

According to a recent study by the Ministry of Finance, the number of cases involving the importation of counterfeit goods in Japan's customs is projected to exceed 33,000 by 2024, marking a record high. Additionally, online C2C transactions have been riddled with increasingly diverse fraudulent tactics, such as buyers requesting item returns while swapping them for different products or sellers dispatching items that differ from their descriptions.

In response to these challenges, Yahoo! Auctions has proactively implemented various measures to ensure safe and reliable transactions on its platform. These measures include clear prohibitions against counterfeit listings, seller verification processes, and AI monitoring for suspicious activities. However, recognizing the need for even more robust protections, the company is rolling out an authentication service for specified product categories.

The collaboration with Sneaker Dunk is significant as the company boasts a professional team of appraisers with millions of authentication cases handled annually. Using a database built from this extensive experience, Sneaker Dunk has achieved an impressive authentication accuracy rate of 99.97% (calculated based on analysis between January 1 and June 30, 2025).

Starting today, items listed on Yahoo! Auctions that are marked as “authenticated” will undergo product verification and authenticity checks by Sneaker Dunk once dispatched by the seller. Only products that match the description and images and are confirmed as genuine will be sent to the successful bidders with Sneaker Dunk’s authentication badge and seal.

The authentication service specifically targets trading cards priced at 20,000 yen or above (for single cards) and 50,000 yen or more for boxes and packs, as well as fashion items and accessories from designated brands, currently encompassing 257 brands across various categories.

One of the key drawbacks of traditional online C2C transaction authentication has been the additional costs and delays in receiving sales proceeds. However, with the new authentication service by Yahoo! Auctions, users will face no fees for authentication or shipping from the authentication agency to the bidders. The bidders will only need to pay the product price to access the service, while sellers can list their items just like any regular auction while having the option to prove the genuineness of their products.

Moreover, sellers will receive their proceeds as soon as the item is dispatched from the authentication agency to the buyer. It's important to note that should a counterfeit or a product differing from the description and images be identified, the item will be returned to the seller at their expense.

This strategic move is designed to lower the barriers for users wishing to access authentication services while alleviating worries regarding counterfeit products and transaction disputes. Yahoo! Auctions strives to create a more reliable and secure marketplace through these initiatives, promoting healthy growth in their operations.

With the mission of “Creating a ‘WOW’ lifestyle platform and delivering surprise to everyday life,” LINE Yahoo aims to continuously enhance safety and reliability in its offerings. As such, Yahoo! Auctions is committed to ensuring that users have a comfortable experience in reuse transactions while leading improvements in the overall safety and trustworthiness of the online C2C market. In doing so, they hope to contribute to the establishment of a sustainable society where more people can participate with peace of mind.