Don’t be fooled by ticket fraudsters

Are you planning on going to a concert, festival, theatre or sporting event in the coming months? We want you to be careful when buying your tickets online and avoid becoming a victim of ticket fraud.

Detective Inspector Ben Robinson from our Economic Crime Unit said: “Throughout the pandemic there was naturally a decrease in ticket fraud as venues closed and events were cancelled. Since the reopening of venues, we are expecting that to change this year.

“Thousands of people across the UK report being victims of ticket scams in a bid to try and get the tickets they want and don’t miss out. Thousands more victims never report it to the police or action fraud.

“We don’t want you to become another victim.

“Tickets for big events can be in very high demand and can cost hundreds of pounds. However keen you are to get one we want, you need to be aware of what to look out for.

“Fraudsters continue to use sophisticated techniques therefore I would urge people to only purchase tickets from the venue’s box office, promoter, official agent or reputable ticket exchange site.

“Auction sites, social media and fan forums may be fake or non-existent, however authentic the seller may seem.

“We’re offering advice on how to get your hands on those prized tickets without putting yourself at risk of being out of pocket.

How do scam tickets work?

• A website offers you the chance to buy tickets to a popular event. The event is often actually sold-out, or the tickets haven’t officially gone on sale yet.
• Check that a website is genuine and secure and log out when you’re done.
• In some cases you might be told that a representative will meet you at the venue on the day. Nobody turns up.
• If the price seems too good to be true it probably is.
• Don’t pay someone you don’t know for tickets by bank transfer. It’s a favourite way for fraudsters to steal your money.

What can I do to check the company is legitimate?

• Check that the website is an official selling site
• Check where the company is based and if their contact details are correct with a telephone number and registered address
• Read reviews online about their services
• Pay for your tickets on credit card to safeguard yourself.
• When you do make a payment, make sure the page is secure. It should have a padlock symbol in the address bar and making sure the website address begins with ‘https’.

If you think you might have been a victim of fraud report it to Action Fraud by visiting actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040, alternatively call Humberside Police on 101. In an emergency or if a crime is in progress dial 999.

If you have information regarding those responsible for fraud, please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.