With the popularity of resale ticket sites and marketplaces like StubHub and Vivid Seats, buying tickets from resellers has become commonplace. However, this has also opened the door for scammers selling fake or invalid tickets. When buying resale tickets, especially for high-demand events, it’s important to authenticate the ticket and seller before handing over your money. Here are some tips on how to tell if a resale ticket is real or fake.
Check for official event logos and trademarks
Real event tickets will have the official logos and trademarks printed on them. For example, NFL tickets will feature the NFL shield while tickets to a Broadway musical will display the show’s title treatment and artwork. If the ticket is missing the official logos or they look low quality/pixelated, that’s a red flag. Fake ticket sellers often leave official branding off tickets to avoid copyright issues.
Verify the ticket barcode
Barcodes contain key information about the event and seat location. Scan the barcode on the resale ticket using a QR reader app. If the details on the barcode don’t match up with the event and seat info printed on the ticket, it’s likely fake. You can also contact the official box office and ask them to verify the barcode. They can check if it’s valid and matches their ticket records.
Make sure ticket details match the event
Closely compare the ticket details (date, time, seat location, section, row, etc) to information about the event. Fake ticket sellers often list incorrect event details on their bogus tickets. Double check the accuracy against the venue’s seating chart and the event’s official website.
Beware of big discounts
Be suspicious of ticket prices that seem too good to be true. The average resale ticket is sold above face value. If a seller claims to have drastically discounted tickets way below typical resale prices, they’re likely scamming you. Also beware of sellers offering to transfer tickets for free!
Check seller ratings and reviews
Buy only from reputable sellers who have overwhelmingly positive feedback and reviews. Platforms like StubHub allow you to see a seller’s rating and history. Be wary of sellers with no rating or a short sales history. Read through negative reviews to look for mentions of selling fake or voided tickets.
Avoid wire transfers and prepaid cards
Never pay for resale tickets by wire transfer or prepaid money card. These forms of payment offer no buyer protection. Legit sellers will accept credit cards, PayPal, StubHub, or other protected payment methods. Ask to pay through the marketplace platform to enable refunds in case the tickets are fraudulent.
Confirm where tickets will be delivered from
Ask the seller where the tickets will be shipped from. Scammers often say they’re mailing from Craigslist or eBay. Legit resellers will send tickets directly from their company. Make sure the delivery window works for your schedule. Beware of last minute hassles like “Oh, the delivery is delayed.”
Ask for ticket guarantee or insurance
Many resale marketplaces offer ticket guarantees or insurance, so you get a refund if the tickets turn out to be invalid. StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee is one example. If a seller refuses to provide this, shop elsewhere. A money-back guarantee is a good sign you’re not getting scammed.
Look into ticket transferability & restrictions
Some event tickets can only be used by the original ticket purchaser and require an ID or credit card for entry. Make sure you can legally use the resale ticket before buying. Fake ticket sellers often don’t disclose these restrictions upfront.
Search for signs of tampering
Inspect the ticket closely for any signs of alteration. Things like smudged ink, misaligned colors, or cheap paper stock can indicate tampering. Genuine event tickets are professionally printed on high quality cardstock and use security designs to prevent duplication.
Verify e-tickets before purchase
For electronic tickets, have the seller forward a screenshot of the tickets in their account. Cross-check that the ticket section, row, and seat numbers match the listing. Be sure the seller confirms the tickets are still available before sending payment.
Google the seller’s address
Scam artists use fake addresses to avoid getting caught. Before meeting a seller in person, look up their address on Google Maps. If it doesn’t exist, that’s a huge red flag. Never meet at obscure locations either – always stick to public places.
Trust your gut
If something seems suspicious or too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t ignore your common sense. A seller pressuring you to buy tickets quickly is a telltale sign of a scam.
Use a secure ticket marketplace
To avoid fake ticket risks altogether, purchase tickets through reputable resale marketplaces like StubHub, VividSeats, or Ticketmaster. These sites vet their sellers, let you e-transfer tickets, and guarantee refunds on invalid tickets. Purchasing through secure, insured platforms offers the most ticket authenticity and buyer protection.
Here is a table summarizing tips for spotting fake tickets:
| Signs of a Fake Ticket | Signs of a Real Ticket |
|---|---|
| No official logos or trademarks | Contains official event branding logos |
| Barcode doesn’t match ticket details | Barcode scans accurately |
| Event details don’t match official info | Ticket details match event date, time, seats |
| Discounted far below typical resale value | Priced fairly based on demand |
| Seller has no/poor ratings and reviews | Seller has positive feedback and sales history |
| Requires wire transfer or prepaid card payment | Accepts credit card payments |
| Mailing tickets from unofficial source | Tickets shipped directly from seller’s company |
| No ticket guarantees or insurance offered | Seller provides a ticket guarantee |
| Doesn’t disclose ticket transfer restrictions | Seller ensures ticket can be legally resold and transferred |
| Ticket shows signs of smudging, tampering, etc. | Ticket uses official cardstock and security features |
| Can’t verify electronic ticket details beforehand | E-ticket screenshot provided to verify before purchase |
| Meeting seller at obscure location | Meeting at safe, public location |
Conclusion
Buying resale tickets can be daunting, but arming yourself with the right precautions goes a long way. Vet the ticket and seller thoroughly before providing any payment. Look for signs of authenticity like official branding, valid barcodes, and protections like guarantees or insurance. Avoid shady sellers who insist on risky forms of payment or won’t verify ticket details upfront. Your safest bet is using trusted resale marketplaces that ensure ticket validity for peace of mind. Stay vigilant, trust your instinct, and you can avoid fake ticket scams.