Trying to buy tickets on Craigslist can be a great way to get access to sold-out events or score cheap seats. However, you also run the risk of encountering scammers trying to rip you off. Here’s how to spot a ticket scammer on Craigslist so you don’t get duped.
Be wary of prices that are too good to be true
If you come across an ad selling tickets at an unbelievably low price, that should raise some red flags. Scammers often try to lure in buyers by listing prices well below face value.
Do some quick research on what the tickets are realistically going for to get a sense of the normal price range. If the Craigslist prices seem too good to be true, they probably are.
Watch out for sellers using stock photos
Most legitimate sellers will include photos of the actual tickets they are selling. Scammers are less likely to have the real tickets on hand, so they often resort to using stock photos instead.
Do a quick reverse image search on any photos in the ad. If they show up across multiple sites, that indicates they are stock photos not specific to the tickets being sold.
Ask to see a copy of the ticket
Before agreeing to buy tickets on Craigslist, always ask the seller to send you a scan or photo of the actual ticket they have in-hand. A real seller will be readily able to provide this.
A scammer is unlikely to actually have the tickets, so they will probably come up with excuses for why they can’t send a copy. Hold your ground and move on if they won’t provide proof.
Watch out for sob stories
Scammers try to get your guard down by using sob stories or convoluted explanations for why they are selling the tickets. Don’t fall for tearjerkers about medical emergencies, military transfers, or other personal crises. This is just a ploy to manipulate your emotions.
Never wire funds or use prepaid cards
Never agree to wire money or use prepaid money cards like GreenDot for buying tickets off Craigslist. These payment methods offer you zero recourse if the tickets turn out to be fake. Only pay cash upon ticket delivery or use PayPal Goods & Services.
Insist on meeting in person
The safest way to buy Craigslist tickets is always to insist on meeting up to complete the exchange. This gives you a chance to verify the tickets and avoid getting scammed. If the seller refuses to meet or only wants to meet far from the event location, just move on.
Check for key security features
When you do meet in person, carefully check over the tickets for any security features like holograms, foil elements, or specialty card stock. Fake tickets are unlikely to fully replicate these. Also match up any barcode or serial numbers against what the seller originally provided.
Search for prior scams
Before sealing the deal, search online for the seller’s name, phone number, and email to see if any suspicious activity comes up. You can also search phrases like “Craigslist ticket scammer” to see if their info matches up with any exposed cons.
Trust your gut
If something seems off about the seller, their story, or their behavior, just trust your instincts and walk away. Even if they turn out to be legitimate, it isn’t worth the risk when your gut says otherwise.
Run a background check
For extra assurance, use a tool like TruthFinder to run a quick background check on the seller’s phone number or email address. This can uncover any red flags in their history, like a criminal record.
Avoid rushing into a purchase
Scammers often try to rush buyers into an immediate purchase by claiming the tickets are in high demand. Don’t let yourself get pressured. Take things slowly and carefully vet the sale.
Beware of escrow services
Some scammers propose using a dubious third-party escrow service to handle payment. They claim this protects you, but really it just introduces more risk. Only use trusted platforms like PayPal Goods & Services.
Spot check online listings
Cross-reference the ad with official box office sites to see if identical tickets are available at normal prices. If the tickets aren’t sold out everywhere else, that’s a giveaway it’s probably a scam.
Ask detailed questions
Pose questions only someone with the actual tickets on hand could answer, like:
- What is the exact seat, row, and section number?
- Is there a barcode or serial number printed on the ticket?
- Does the ticket show the original purchaser’s name?
If the seller seems unable to provide clear answers, that’s a red flag.
Conclusion
Buying tickets on Craigslist comes with risks, but you can avoid getting scammed by taking the right precautions. Always thoroughly vet the seller, never pay with risky methods, and inspect tickets carefully before purchasing. If a deal seems suspicious, just trust your gut and walk away. Following these tips will help you land real tickets and enjoy the event!
