Quick Answer
No, screenshots of Ticketmaster barcodes typically do not work for venue entry. Ticketmaster barcodes are designed to be scanned digitally from the Ticketmaster app and contain encrypted data that allows each barcode to only be scanned once. Taking a screenshot captures the barcode image but does not capture the underlying data. Venues use barcode scanners that can detect copied barcodes and will not grant entry with a screenshot. Fans must have access to the Ticketmaster app and an internet/data connection to retrieve a valid barcode when entering the event.
The Purpose of Ticketmaster Barcodes
Ticketmaster barcodes serve an important security function. Each barcode contains encrypted information about that specific ticket, including the location, date, seat numbers, and more. The barcode is dynamically generated in the Ticketmaster app and updates frequently. Screenshots capture the barcode image at one moment in time but do not capture the underlying data.
Why Dynamic Barcodes are Used
Ticketmaster uses dynamic barcodes rather than static printed barcodes to:
- Prevent fraud – The constantly changing barcode prevents duplicates or forgeries.
- Enable real-time ticket tracking – Ticketmaster can void tickets or update seat locations when necessary.
- Restrict re-use – Once scanned, the barcode is immediately invalidated.
With paper tickets, duplicating a barcode is trivial. Dynamic barcodes prevent fans from “sharing” barcodes since the barcode only remains valid on one device. This system gives Ticketmaster and venues tight control over ticket use.
How Dynamic Barcodes Work
The Ticketmaster app does not store or generate the barcodes locally. Instead, the app contacts Ticketmaster servers to retrieve the barcode:
- User opens their Ticketmaster ticket(s) in the app.
- App contacts Ticketmaster servers to request the barcode(s).
- If ticket is valid, Ticketmaster server generates a new barcode and encrypts ticket data into it.
- App displays the barcode to the user.
Once the barcode is scanned, the Ticketmaster system immediately invalidates that barcode and generates a new one. This cycle continues up until the ticket is fully redeemed at the venue. Without contacting the Ticketmaster servers, there is no way to retrieve a fresh valid barcode.
Why Screenshots Do Not Work
Taking a screenshot of your Ticketmaster barcode does not capture any of the encrypted ticket data or barcode generation process. The screenshot only captures a picture of the barcode graphic at one point in time. For all practical purposes, it is an empty barcode. Let’s look at why screenshot barcodes fail:
1. Static Data
The screenshot contains no unique ticket data. It is simply an image. Venues use advanced scanners that scan the data encrypted within the barcode, not just the pattern.
2. No Connection
Without an internet connection, the Ticketmaster app cannot fetch dynamic barcode data from Ticketmaster servers. Offline barcodes simply won’t scan.
3. Expired Security
Even if a screenshot barcode were usable, it would be immediately expired after the first scan. Ticketmaster only allows one scan per unique barcode.
4. Copy Protection
Venues use specialized scanners that can detect duplicate barcodes. The scanners check for the authentic encrypted data from Ticketmaster. Any duplicates are instantly rejected.
When Fans Need Ticketmaster Barcode Access
Fans require access to the Ticketmaster app and barcodes at several points during an event:
1. Venue Entry
To enter the venue, fans scan their Ticketmaster barcode at kiosks and turnstiles. Without a valid barcode, fans can’t get into the event.
2. Re-Entry
If fans leave the venue, they need to re-scan their Ticketmaster barcode to re-gain entry.
3. Exclusive Access
Some barcodes grant special access like VIP areas, early entry, backstage access, etc. Fans need to scan these barcodes at special entrances.
4. Upgrades
If fans purchase seat upgrades during the event, they need the app to get their new barcode for the upgraded seats.
Getting into Venues Without the App
Since digital Ticketmaster barcodes are mandatory for venue entry, fans without the app have limited options:
Printed Tickets
For select smaller venues that don’t require digital tickets, fans may be able to use a printed ticket for entry. Printed tickets have security limitations compared to digital barcodes.
Box Office
If available, fans can physically visit the box office to have their tickets reprinted to allow entry without the app. There is usually a reprint fee. Availability varies greatly.
Temporary Pass
Some venues may issue temporary single-use passes to grant entry after verifying a fan’s purchase another way, such as an ID check. This is up to the discretion of each specific venue.
Buy Again
As a last resort, fans without Ticketmaster access may have to repurchase tickets if available. This is obviously a costly option.
Key Takeaways
Here are some key points on Ticketmaster barcode screenshots:
- Screenshots only capture the barcode image, not the encrypted ticket data.
- The Ticketmaster app requires an internet connection to retrieve dynamic barcodes from the Ticketmaster servers.
- Venues use scanners that read the underlying barcode data, not just the image.
- Duplicate and static barcodes are easily detected and rejected.
- Fans must scan Ticketmaster barcodes to enter venues, re-enter after exiting, access exclusive areas, and redeem upgrades.
- Limited fallback options exist for fans without Ticketmaster barcode access.
Conclusion
Ticketmaster barcodes provide an important security function by allowing encrypted dynamic codes that are tied to each fan’s ticket purchase. Screenshots undermine this system by capturing static images that lack the dynamic data. As a result, screenshots of Ticketmaster barcodes typically do not successfully grant venue access and fans should ensure they have proper access to barcodes in the Ticketmaster app before attempting entry. While some workaround options exist, having access to the required Ticketmaster barcode in the app is the only surefire way to gain entry.
