If you are considering buying tickets to a live event, remember to look out for the signs of ticket fraud. Criminals often set up fake websites or social media profiles to sell tickets to concerts or sports events that are either fraudulent or do not exist.
Websites may even look like genuine organisations, but subtle changes in the URL can indicate that it is fraudulent.
Criminals might have used images of tickets which appear genuine to commit fraud.
They may contact you via text, email or direct message (DM) to advertise fake tickets. They create fake posts on social media to scam those looking for tickets.
It is always safest to book tickets through official sellers that are members of the self-regulatory body, the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR), as anything else could be a scam.
How to spot ticket fraud
- You see an offer for a ticket in an email or a message/DM.
- You are offered tickets for a high demand or sold out event at a too good to be true price.
- You are asked to pay by bank transfer only and not via the secure payment methods recommended by reputable online retailers.
- You see a website that looks similar to a genuine organisation, but there are subtle changes to the URL.
- You are told that a customer representative will arrange to meet you outside the venue.
If you have been affected by ticket fraud, please report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.