Tickets for some events can be high in demand, which means you might be inclined to source them from people and places you wouldn't usually go to. Criminals will look to exploit this and attempt to sell fake or non-existent tickets to unsuspecting victims.
Third-party ticket-selling websites are popular places for people to purchase tickets from others who have previously bought a ticket but wish to sell it. It is also the perfect spot for criminals to masquerade as legitimate sellers.
Scammers also use social media and even create fake websites to make themselves appear legitimate so it's important to do some research before sending money for something that might never arrive.
Avoiding ticket scams
Does the seller have an online presence that looks authentic? Do they have reliable feedback from other people to prove they are legitimate?
Don't use unofficial websites - find out what the event organiser says about reselling. Many large events will have a list of authorised sellers.
Don't buy tickets from strangers on social media. Buy tickets from the venue's box office, official promoter or agents, or from a well-known and reputable ticket site.
Where possible, pay for tickets by credit card - this will offer more protection if you are a victim of fraud. Being asked to pay by bank transfer should raise alarm bells.
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