Typically, legitimate ways to acquire these cards require exchanges between players or the purchase of random loot packs, making these cards incredibly rare. And it should be noted that the Icon and TOTY cards are not rare just because of the famous players on them, but because their competitive statistics are also some of the best in the game.
The exchange was named EA Gate on social media. You can check the alleged details in a @FutArcade tweet below.
Special thanks to @RiberaRibell for the photo, he did an amazing job
(continued in comments)#fut #fifa pic.twitter.com/bJIg2rpWtI
– Arcade-Fut (@FutArcade) March 10, 2021
It is unclear exactly how these transactions begin, but according to the chat images, a person looking for rare FUT cards only needs to provide their PSN and EA ID and the appropriate funds. When asked by the buyer if there is a reason to be concerned about being banned, the seller says “there is no risk”, but cannot disclose the reason for concern about security.
The alleged seller appears to offer a menu of items, including 3 icon cards for 750 euros (~ $ 895) or 3 icon cards and 2 team cards of the year for 1,000 euros (~ $ 1193).
In a statement posted on EA Sports FIFA’s official Twitter account, the company claims to be aware of the allegations and has launched an investigation.
“A full investigation is underway and, if we identify misconduct, we will act quickly,” says EA. “We want to be clear – this type of behavior is unacceptable and we in no way tolerate what is claimed to have happened here.”
– EA SPORTS FIFA (@EASPORTSFIFA) March 10, 2021
IGN contacted EA and received the same statement posted on Twitter. We will have updates for when EA completes its investigation.
Matt TM Kim is IGN News Editor.