Social media: Criminals can create fake profiles, posts or pages on social media to scam people looking for tickets. They may DM or message to advertise fake tickets, or reach out to you in groups, pages or posts. 

Websites: Criminals can create fake websites to capture your personal information or card details or take your money. They can clone the websites of genuine organisations with subtle changes in the URL, branding or language that can indicate they are fraudulent. 

How to protect yourself

Avoid clicking on suspicious links or “too good to be true” offers in emails and on social media.

Do your research on sites you are buying tickets from and read reviews from trusted sources.

If you’re told that a customer representative will be arranged to meet outside the venue, this is likely to be a scam.

Check website URLs for subtle changes which could indicate they are fraudulent.

Use the secure payment methods recommended by reputable online retailers and be wary of requests to pay by bank transfer.

Try and book tickets through official sellers who are members or the self-regulatory body Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR), as anything else could be a scam.

For more information go to : www.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk