With the rise of online ticket sales, ticket fraud has become a growing concern for event attendees. Fraudulent tickets can result in financial loss, disappointment, and inconvenience. Here are our most essential tips to help avoid fraud when buying an event ticket online:
Purchase Tickets from Reputable Sources
It is important to buy tickets only from reputable sources, such as the official event website or authorized ticket vendors. Avoid buying tickets from third-party websites or individuals, as they may be selling fraudulent tickets. A whopping 12% of all festival attendees are subjected to fraud each year.
Check the Ticket Seller’s Reputation
Before buying tickets from a website or vendor, research their reputation by reading reviews and checking their ratings on trusted review websites. A reputable seller will have positive reviews and a good rating. Check out TrustPilot and other reputable online rating sites.
Verify the Event Information
If you do buy from a 3rd party please ensure that the event details, such as the date, time, and location, match the information provided on the official event website. Any discrepancies could be a red flag for fraudulent tickets.
Verify the Ticket Information
Check the ticket information, such as the seat number and section, to ensure that they match the information provided by the event organizer. If the information is incorrect or inconsistent, the ticket may be fraudulent.
Look for Security Features
Genuine tickets often have security features, such as holographic images, barcodes, or watermarks. Check for these features to confirm the authenticity of the ticket.
Use a Secure Payment Method
Use a secure payment method, such as a credit card or PayPal, to protect against fraudulent activities. Avoid paying with cash or bank transfer, as these methods provide no protection against fraud.
Don’t Share Personal Information
Do not share your personal information, such as your national insurance number or driver’s license, when buying tickets online. This information is not required to purchase tickets and can be used for fraudulent activities.
Be Wary of Unsolicited Emails
Beware of unsolicited emails or messages offering tickets for an event. Scammers often use email phishing techniques to trick people into buying fraudulent tickets or to obtain personal information.
Don’t Fall for Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals
If a ticket is being sold for significantly less than the face value or if the seller is offering multiple tickets at a discounted price, it may be a red flag for fraud. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
Check for the Event Organizer’s Endorsement
Some event organizers endorse specific ticket sellers or resellers. Check if the seller is endorsed by the event organizer before making a purchase.
Be Mindful of Ticket Transfers
If you are purchasing a ticket from someone who is transferring it to you, make sure to use a secure platform for the transfer. Avoid transferring money or personal information outside of the secure platform.
Keep a Record of the Transaction
Keep a record of the transaction, including the ticket information, purchase date, and payment method. This information can be helpful in resolving any issues related to the purchase or identifying fraudulent activities.
Avoiding fraud when buying an event ticket online requires a combination of caution, research, and common sense. By purchasing tickets from reputable sources, verifying event and ticket information, looking for security features, using a secure payment method, and being mindful of ticket transfers, you can protect yourself from fraud and enjoy a safe and enjoyable event experience.