Ticketmaster is generally considered a safe and reliable site for purchasing tickets to concerts, sports events, theater shows, and other live entertainment events. As one of the largest primary ticket outlets in the world, Ticketmaster works directly with venues and event organizers to sell tickets on their behalf. They sell millions of tickets each year across thousands of events.
Security of the website and mobile apps
Ticketmaster utilizes standard security measures to protect user information and prevent fraud. Their website and mobile apps use HTTPS encryption to secure all transmitted data. User passwords are hashed and salted for protection. They are PCI compliant and undergo regular security audits. Users can feel safe entering payment information into Ticketmaster’s secure checkout flow.
They also utilize verification codes and CAPTCHA to prevent automated bots from purchasing tickets. Bots have become an issue in recent years as third-party resellers try to unfairly sweep up tickets. Ticketmaster works hard to ensure real fans get access to tickets over scalpers using bots.
Protection against fake tickets
Fake tickets from third-party resellers are one of the top concerns for ticket buyers. Ticketmaster has implemented a few key measures to combat fake or invalid tickets:
- Ticket Transfer – Allows fans to safely resell tickets they can’t use through Ticketmaster’s official resale marketplace. This ensures tickets haven’t been duplicated or sold multiple times.
- Ticketmaster Verified Tickets – A ticket delivery method where a unique barcode tied to the buyer’s identity is scanned upon entry. This prevents duplication and ensures only the ticket buyer gains entry.
- Fan Support – Ticketmaster’s fan support team helps users spot invalid or fake third-party tickets and secures valid replacements if issues arise.
As long as users purchase tickets directly through Ticketmaster, either during the initial sale or through Ticketmaster’s verified resale marketplace, they are guaranteed to receive authentic tickets that will work at the event.
Refund and support policies
Ticketmaster also has buyer-friendly refund and support policies in place:
- Refunds – If an event is postponed, canceled, or you can no longer attend, you can obtain a full refund of the ticket’s face value. Refunds are generally processed back to your original payment method within 30 days.
- Fan Support – Ticketmaster provides 24/7 phone and online chat support. Their fan support team can help with order issues, re-issues, invalid tickets, and general questions.
- Verified Resale Marketplace – Provides a safe, Ticketmaster-backed platform for reselling tickets. Sellers are required to provide certain guarantees around authenticity.
Their refund and support policies provide buyers with assurance that Ticketmaster has their back if any issues arise with an order.
Is Ticketmaster the official ticketing source?
For the majority of major concerts, sports leagues, and theatres, Ticketmaster is the official primary ticketing partner. Ticketmaster signs exclusive contracts with venues, theatres, promoters, bands, sports leagues, and event organizers to be the official source for the initial ticket sale.
Some examples of partners Ticketmaster has official relationships with:
- Live Nation – The largest concert and venue promoter in the world
- The NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB – Major professional sports leagues
- WWE -Professional wrestling entertainment company
- Theaters like AMC, Regal, and more
In most cases, at least for major popular events, the only way to get tickets directly from the source is through Ticketmaster. If an event is sold through Ticketmaster, buyers can be assured tickets are coming directly from the event venue, sports league, or promoter.
Are there risks buying from third parties?
While Ticketmaster is the official source, buyers do have the option on many events to purchase tickets from secondary marketplaces like Stubhub, VividSeats, or even resellers on Craigslist.
There are some risks to be aware of when buying from third-party resellers:
- Potential for fake or invalid tickets – More risk of scams and fake tickets.
- No guarantees – Resellers may not stand behind tickets if issues arise.
- Higher prices – Third-party sellers often markup tickets significantly.
- Lack of accountability – Reseller could go out of business or disappear with no recourse.
Ticketmaster certainly places restrictions on ticket transfers and makes it difficult for season ticket holders or regular buyers to resell a portion of their seats. But there are some benefits to buying directly from them, especially for high-demand events when fake ticket risks are highest.
Common complaints users have against Ticketmaster
While Ticketmaster is generally safe and reliable, they do receive their fair share of complaints from users. Some common pain points customers experience include:
- Service fees – Customers pay services fees on every ticket purchase, which can add 25-30% to the order cost.
- Dynamic pricing – For high-demand events, ticket prices fluctuate based on demand, alienating some fans.
- Lack of tickets – Bots and pre-sales make it hard for customers to get tickets, even right at the on-sale time.
- Upsells – Many feel Ticketmaster tries to upsell them on insurance, VIP packages, or overpriced “Platinum” tickets.
The bottom line is customers feel Ticketmaster’s business practices are centered around driving profits over serving fans. While unfair, these complaints have not made Ticketmaster an “unsafe” option overall.
Is it worth paying more to buy directly from Ticketmaster?
For hot shows where tickets are scarce, buyers may pay 2-3x the face value by buying from a reseller. Is it worth the premium to buy directly from Ticketmaster instead? There are a few factors to consider:
- Peace of mind on legitimacy – Tickets are 100% valid and come with buyer guarantees.
- Perks like VIP options – Ticketmaster provides official upgraded seating/experiences you can’t get elsewhere.
- Ease of transfer – If plans change, easy to transfer a Ticketmaster order to a friend.
- Refund possibility – May be able to get a refund if show is canceled or you can’t attend.
Ultimately, buyers need to decide if the extra cost provides enough extra security and buyer protection to be worth spending over simply buying the cheapest listed ticket from a reseller. For very high-demand shows, the added Buyer Guarantee protection is likely worthwhile.
Tips for buying tickets safely on Ticketmaster
Here are some tips fans can use to purchase event tickets safely through Ticketmaster:
- Use Ticketmaster Verified Tickets for added security when available.
- Only purchase tickets listed as “Sold by Ticketmaster” on their website.
- Be wary of offers too good to true compared to current ticket prices.
- Pay with a credit card to dispute any fraudulent charges.
- Confirm order details carefully before submitting payment.
- Use Ticketmaster’s official fan support if any issues come up.
- Avoid buying from sellers promoting tickets outside of Ticketmaster.
While not a perfect company, following basic precautions when buying tickets through their website or apps can give customers a safer, more reliable ticketing experience.
