Pokémon Co. has said that as part of their efforts to provide all customers with equal opportunities and ensure they can enjoy services safely and securely, they are considering introducing an identity verification system in Japan using “My Number Cards” (Japanese individual identification cards). This would apply to priority lottery and sale of select products on the official Pokémon merchandise online store, as well as registration for some official tournaments and other events held within Japan.
Pokémon Co. plans to use an external service to read the IC chip on My Number Cards with your smartphone and authenticate Players Club accounts. During authentication, Pokémon Co. will verify identity using the “User Authentication Electronic Certificate” and “Card Surface Information Input Assistance” embedded in the card. Pokémon Co. goes on to say they will not acquire or store your “My Number (Individual Number)”.
As it stands right now, Pokémon Co. is considering using this system starting around August 2026. They will announce the specific implementation date, target products and events, authentication methods, and age-based operational rules as soon as the details are finalized.