Practical ways to identify and avoid ticket scams
Ticket scams are common, especially for high-demand events. Knowing the warning signs and safe-buying habits helps protect your money and keep your plans intact.
Red flags to watch for:
- Prices that are suspiciously low for high-demand events.
- Sellers refusing to use secure platforms or requesting payment via wire transfer or gift cards.
- Listings without clear seat details or photos of the actual tickets.
- No seller verification or poor reviews.
Safe buying practices:
- Use reputable ticket platforms with buyer guarantees and SSL-secured checkouts.
- Prefer credit card payments for added fraud protection.
- Verify that digital tickets are transferable through the platform’s official process.
- Check seller ratings, reviews, and history on the marketplace.
If you suspect a scam:
- Report the listing and seller to the platform immediately.
- Contact your bank or card issuer for chargeback options.
- Alert the event venue or promoter, who may have additional advice.
Staying cautious, using verified marketplaces, and favoring secure payment methods significantly reduce the risk of ticket scams.