How to avoid World Cup ticket scams
Tickets to World Cup matches in the U.S. are selling for hundreds, thousands and even tens of thousands of dollars, prompting the Federal Trade Commission to warn fans about potential ticket scams.
Experts recommend buying tickets only through official and trusted channels, such as FIFA.com, the FIFA Resale Marketplace, or other well-known platforms. StubHub guarantees valid entry or a refund for every buyer, and Ticketmaster’s “Ticketmaster Resale” is a verified way to ensure ticket authenticity.
Be cautious of tickets priced significantly below market value. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Scammers may also contact you directly, urging you to act fast to secure a deal or claiming you’ve won a lottery you never entered.
To verify security and authenticity, ensure the website begins with “https://” and has a closed lock symbol in or near the browser’s address bar. If these elements are missing, stop and do not enter payment information.
Conduct a quick online search to read reviews about the seller and check with the Better Business Bureau for complaints. Protect your personal and financial information by avoiding unfamiliar websites or sellers. Whenever possible, pay with a credit card, which typically offers fraud protections that debit cards and payment apps like Cash App or Venmo do not.
If you suspect you’ve fallen for a scam, take immediate action. Contact your bank or credit card company to dispute the charge, report the scam to the FTC and your state attorney general, monitor your accounts for unauthorized activity, and freeze your credit to prevent further damage.
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