With the popularity of Ticketmaster for purchasing event tickets, it’s understandable that buyers want to verify their tickets are legitimate. There are a few ways Ticketmaster ticket holders can authenticate their tickets.
Check for a Valid Barcode
The key identifier on any Ticketmaster ticket is the unique barcode. This barcode contains details about the specific ticket including the event, seat location, date, and more. Ticketmaster barcodes are designed to be scanned digitally at the venue for access. Barcodes should have a series of numbers and letters that can be clearly read by scanning devices.
Some signs of an invalid barcode include:
- Barcode numbers/letters are blurry or illegible
- Barcode is pixelated and low quality when zoomed in
- Barcode is not accepted when scanning into the Ticketmaster app
If the barcode contains crisp, legible alphanumeric characters and scans properly, it is likely valid. Blurry or edited barcodes often indicate a fake ticket.
Verify Purchase Details
Ticketmaster tickets list details like the event name, date, seat location, vendor, ticket price, and seat ID on the ticket itself. Carefully examine these details to ensure they match the event you purchased tickets for.
Some things to check for include:
- Correct event name and date
- Seat details match your purchased tickets
- Listed ticket price is what you paid
- Ticketmaster is listed as the ticket vendor
If any of the ticket details do not match your purchase, it raises suspicions about the ticket’s validity. Authentic tickets will accurately reflect the specifics of your order.
Verify Security Features
Ticketmaster implements security features that can help verify the legitimacy of tickets. Here are some things to look for:
- Holograms – Many new Ticketmaster tickets have holographic elements that are difficult to duplicate. Tilting the ticket back and forth should reveal a hologram.
- Thermochromic ink – Some tickets use color-changing ink that reacts to heat. Rubbing a finger over the ink makes it change colors if it’s real.
- Microprinting – Tiny text that is difficult to imitate is printed along the edges of some tickets.
- Watermarks – Holding some tickets up to the light reveals watermarks embedded into the ticket stock.
If your ticket is missing standard security features, it may be counterfeit. Contact Ticketmaster if you suspect your ticket lacks authenticating elements.
Purchase Verification
If you purchased tickets directly through Ticketmaster, your account will have records of all your ticket purchases. Log into your Ticketmaster account and verify the event, seat details, price, and other ticket information matches what is listed for your order.
Your Ticketmaster account may also show if tickets have been transferred or resold. If the details do not match your purchase records, the tickets may not be legitimate.
Contact Ticketmaster
If you still have doubts about your tickets after checking the barcode, details, and security features, reach out to Ticketmaster directly. A customer representative can look up your purchase records and verify if your tickets are valid.
Contact Ticketmaster via:
- Live online chat on their website
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +1 800-653-8000 (US)
Be prepared to provide order numbers, ticket details, and any other information to help Ticketmaster authenticate your tickets.
Beware of Scams
Some fake Ticketmaster tickets are sold through scam exchanges and resellers. Be careful when purchasing from:
- Unverified online marketplaces
- Individual resellers on Craigslist, Facebook etc.
- Ticket scalpers or brokers
Purchase tickets through trusted sources like Ticketmaster’s verified resale platform, or directly from the venue box office to avoid scams.
Inspect Tickets In-Person Before Purchase
If purchasing tickets second-hand from a reseller, make efforts to physically examine the tickets before buying. Check for:
- Clear, crisp barcode without blurriness or pixelation
- Correct details that match the event
- Holograms, microprinting, or other security features
Buying in-person allows you to thoroughly inspect tickets and avoid getting scammed by counterfeits.
Bring Printed Tickets as Backup
While Ticketmaster primarily uses digital ticketing accessed via mobile apps, you can print Ticketmaster tickets to serve as a backup.
If you’re worried about your tickets’ validity, print a physical copy that can be scanned at the venue if there are any issues with mobile access. Print directly from your Ticketmaster account for authenticity.
Arrive Early
Get to the event well before the start time to allow extra time for ticket verification. If any problems arise with fake tickets, you have a better chance of getting the issue resolved or seeking alternate tickets.
Know the Ticketmaster Refund Policy
If you verify your Ticketmaster tickets are fake, you may be eligible for a refund or replacement tickets if you purchased directly from Ticketmaster. Each event has its own refund policy timelines, so check your order details. Generally:
- NFL, NBA, NHL – Refunds issued up to event start
- MLB – Normally no refunds
- Concerts – Refunds typically within 30 days of event
Contact Ticketmaster immediately if you determine your tickets are fraudulent and you meet the refund policy requirements.
Conclusion
While ticket fraud does occur, there are ways for Ticketmaster customers to verify their tickets are real and avoid scams. Carefully checking barcodes, details, security features, and purchase records can help authenticate tickets. Reaching out to Ticketmaster with any uncertainties provides another layer of verification. Take advantage of fraud protections by only buying from trusted sources. With some vigilance, Ticketmaster ticket holders can confidently verify their tickets are legitimate and valid for entry.
