The latest data paints a stark picture: in 2024, a staggering £9.7 million was lost to ticket fraud, marking a nearly 50% increase from the £6.7 million reported in 2023. This significant rise is coupled with an 11% increase in the number of ticket fraud reports, with a total of 9,826 incidents recorded in 2024 compared to 8,719 the previous year.
These alarming statistics have prompted Action Fraud to launch a timely awareness campaign, urging the public to stay alert for criminals lurking online and on social media, ready to exploit the desire for tickets to sold-out events. Reporting insights highlight June and July as peak periods for ticket fraud, with 1,067 and 887 reports respectively last year.
Claire Webb, Acting Director of Action Fraud, stressed the importance of caution, stating: "With £9.7 million lost to ticket fraud last year, Action Fraud is urging people who are heading to the top events and those looking for last minute ticket deals this summer to stay vigilant and recognise the signs of ticket fraud."
She added a crucial warning about unsolicited offers: "Beware of fraudsters trying to take advantage by selling fake tickets to popular or sold-out events online or on social media, especially if you receive unsolicited or unexpected messages offering tickets."
Protect Yourself: Key Steps to Avoid Ticket Fraud
Action Fraud and the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR) have issued clear advice to help you stay safe and ensure your summer events are memorable for the right reasons:
- Stick to Official Sources: Only purchase tickets from the venue's box office, official promoter or agent, or well-known and reputable ticketing websites. Look for the STAR logo for added peace of mind.
- Avoid Bank Transfers: Be extremely wary of sellers asking for payment via bank transfer, especially if you don't know them. Credit card payments often offer better protection against fraud.
- Strengthen Your Online Security: Use a unique and strong password for your email and ticket purchasing accounts. Consider using three random words and enable two-step verification (2SV) for added security.
- Be Suspicious of Unbelievable Deals: If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of unsolicited emails, texts, or adverts promising heavily discounted tickets.
- Check for STAR Membership: If buying from a ticket agent, check if they are a member of the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR). STAR members adhere to a strict code of practice and offer an Alternative Dispute Resolution service. You can find more information at
star.org.uk/buy_safe (pdf)
Jonathan Brown, Chief Executive of STAR, echoed this advice: "Buying from a STAR member means you’re getting tickets from a trusted, authorised seller who follows our strict code of practice. It also gives you the added protection of access to our approved Alternative Dispute Resolution service, should anything go wrong."
He further emphasised the need for consumer awareness: "With another packed summer of gigs and festivals ahead, it’s vital that fans don’t let fraudsters cash in on the excitement. Scammers are getting smarter, but so can consumers. By following Action Fraud’s advice and sticking to safe, verified sources, you can make sure your ticket leads to the real experience - not a costly disappointment."
What to Do If You Suspect or Become a Victim of Fraud:
- Report Suspicious Emails: If you receive a suspicious email, forward it to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS) at report@phishing.gov.uk.
- Seek Online Security Advice: For more tips on staying secure online, visit cyberaware.gov.uk.
- Learn More About Fraud Prevention: Visit the Stop Think Fraud campaign website at
https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk - Report Fraud: If you have been a victim of ticket fraud, report it to Action Fraud at
www.actionfraud.police.uk
Don't let fraudsters ruin your summer plans. By staying vigilant and following these simple steps, you can protect yourself from ticket scams and ensure you have a fantastic and fraud-free summer of events!
Source: Action Fraud (14-04-2025)
