The feeling of securing tickets to your favorite artist is unmatched. But the despair of finding out those tickets are fake is devastating. Here is how to protect yourself.
1. Use Official Primary Ticketing Sites
Always start with the artist's official website or the venue's site. They will link you to the authorized ticket seller (like Ticketmaster, AXS, or Tomorrow World Tickets).
2. Avoid Scalpers on Social Media
Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are full of bots and scammers claiming to have "4 tickets for sale because my grandma died." If it sounds like a sob story combined with a great deal, it's a scam.
3. Check the URL Carefully
Scammers create websites that look identical to official ones but with slight misspellings (e.g., "ticketmasster.com"). Always double-check the web address.
4. Use Secure Payment Methods
Never pay with wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Use a credit card or PayPal, which offer buyer protection in case of fraud.
5. Be Wary of "Too Good to Be True" Prices
If a concert is sold out and someone is selling VIP tickets for half the original price, walk away.