Action Fraud is warning music fans to be on their guard after receiving a number of reports from people concerned they have bought gig tickets online and not received them.
Ticketing fraud happens when you buy tickets from a website that seems legitimate, but turns out to be run by fraudsters. The fraudsters take your money but you never receive your tickets. Alternatively, you may receive tickets that are fake that see you turned away at the door at the event venue.
If you think you have fallen victim to ticketing fraud, report it to Action Fraud by filling out the online fraud reporting tool or by calling 0300 123 2040.
All reports are passed on to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, run by City of London Police. The force is analysing the reports received so far as it considers whether to launch an investigation.
Protect yourself from ticketing fraud:
- Go to the official website of the musician or venue to find out how and when tickets are being distributed.
- Be wary if previously advertised sold out tickets are on sale.
- Research the ticket company online.
- Check that the company has a real world presence, for example, a registered UK landline telephone number. This can be checked in the BT phonebook.
- Look out for platform telephone numbers starting 070 or 004470. These can be set up on the internet and answered anywhere in the world.
- Check if the ticket company is a registered company with Companies House.
- Check ticketing forums to find feedback from people who have purchased tickets from the website.
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