Ticketmaster requires phone verification for certain types of ticket purchases as an extra security measure. This is done to prevent bots and scalpers from buying up large quantities of tickets. Phone verification helps ensure that real fans have a fair chance at getting tickets. If you see a prompt for phone verification during checkout, here’s what you need to know.
When does Ticketmaster require phone verification?
Ticketmaster will prompt you for phone verification when:
- You are purchasing tickets for a high-demand event
- You are buying multiple tickets in a single order
- You are a new customer without a Ticketmaster account purchase history
For popular concerts, sports games, and other hot ticket events where tickets sell out quickly, Ticketmaster implements safeguards like phone verification to deter scalpers and bot attacks. If you are buying just one or two tickets, you may not have to go through phone verification. But if you are purchasing 4, 6, 8 or more tickets, you will very likely need to verify your phone number.
How does Ticketmaster phone verification work?
When you checkout and are prompted for phone verification, you will need to enter your phone number. Ticketmaster will then send you a verification code via text message or automated phone call.
You will have 5 minutes to enter this code back into the Ticketmaster website to complete your purchase. If you do not enter the code in time, you may lose the tickets in your cart and have to start over.
Text message verification
If you opt for text message verification, make sure your phone number is correct when entering it. Ticketmaster will send you a 6-digit verification code in a text message to the number provided. Open the text message on your phone and enter the code into the verification field on the Ticketmaster checkout screen. Click submit to complete verification.
Automated phone call
If you choose automated phone call verification, Ticketmaster’s system will call the number you entered and provide the verification code over an automated message. Have a pen ready to write down the 6-digit code. Enter it into the verification field on the Ticketmaster website and click submit.
Note that the automated calls may come from a private or unknown number. You will need to answer the call to get the verification code.
Tips for smooth phone verification
To ensure phone verification goes smoothly:
- Have your phone handy when buying tickets so you can access the verification code right away.
- Make sure you have reception or WiFi so you don’t miss the verification text or call.
- Enter the correct phone number you have with you when prompted for verification.
- Be ready to enter the code quickly once received – you only have 5 minutes.
- If you don’t receive the text or call, try refreshing and requesting a new code.
- If you’re still having trouble, contact Ticketmaster Fan Support for assistance.
Troubleshooting issues with phone verification
What if I don’t get the verification text message?
If you opt for text message verification but don’t receive it, first double check that the phone number you entered is correct. Also try refreshing the page and requesting a new verification code. There could be a delay in Ticketmaster’s system sending the message. If you still don’t receive it after a couple tries, you’ll have to contact Ticketmaster support for help completing verification.
What if I miss the verification call?
If you chose the automated call option but missed it or weren’t able to answer in time, you can refresh the page and have Ticketmaster place the call again. Just make sure to have your phone ready and enter the code promptly once you receive the new call. You only have 5 minutes from the time the call is placed to enter the code, so be prepared.
The verification code I received is not working. What should I do?
Double check that you are entering the 6-digit verification code correctly. The code should only contain numbers 0-9. Make sure you are typing it into the proper verification field during checkout. If you are certain the code is being entered correctly but it is still not working, you will need to contact Ticketmaster support for further assistance. Do not just keep trying random codes, as this could lock your account.
I didn’t enter the code in time. Do I have to start over?
Unfortunately if the 5 minute time limit for entering the verification code expires, the tickets in your cart will be released. You will have to begin the checkout process again and re-enter phone verification. Make sure you only initiate verification when you are fully ready to complete your purchase, so you can enter the code in time.
Why won’t Ticketmaster text or call me for verification?
There are a couple reasons you may not be receiving the text or phone call from Ticketmaster for verification:
- The phone number you entered is incorrect – double check it is your actual phone number.
- You have bad cell reception or no signal.
- Your phone line is busy when Ticketmaster attempts to call.
- You have text message blocking enabled, which is blocking Ticketmaster’s system.
- Your mobile carrier has technical issues communicating with Ticketmaster.
Try requesting a new verification code and make sure you have good signal on your phone. If it still doesn’t come through, you’ll need to contact support.
Why is phone verification required by Ticketmaster?
Ticketmaster implemented phone verification to combat automated bots and scalpers that buy up tickets before real fans get the chance. For high demand shows, unscrupulous resellers were using bots to purchase huge blocks of tickets as soon as sales opened. This let them instantly repost tickets on secondary markets at astronomical prices.
Scalpers and bots had the upper hand with high speed internet connections and automated checkout processes. Average fans with slower connections didn’t stand a chance competing. Phone verification helps level the playing field by requiring a human action – entering the verification code physically received on a phone.
While phone verification can be inconvenient, it does improve the buying experience by limiting scalpers and increasing genuine ticket availability for buyers. Some tips to make verification go smoothly are to have your phone ready, be prepared to enter the code quickly, and make sure you have good reception.
Ticketmaster is constantly updating its purchase processes to detect and deter bots and scalpers. Phone verification is one helpful safeguard to maintain fairness and provide fans better access to tickets for top shows and events.
Purchasing tips to avoid phone verification
If you want to avoid undergoing Ticketmaster’s phone verification process, here are some tips:
- Buy tickets as soon as the sale starts – popular events will trigger verification once initial allotments sell out.
- Only purchase 1 or 2 tickets per transaction – buying in bulk triggers verification.
- Use your Ticketmaster account instead of guest checkout – established accounts often bypass verification.
- Purchase plentiful non-premium seat options – floor seats or VIP packages often require verification.
- Use the Ticketmaster app which sometimes does not require verification.
However, there are no guarantees that you’ll avoid verification which is implemented at Ticketmaster’s discretion for high demand events. Your best recourse is being prepared to complete phone verification to ensure you secure your tickets.
Contacting Ticketmaster support for phone verification issues
If you have trouble receiving or entering the verification code and cannot complete your Ticketmaster purchase, you will need to contact their customer support for assistance.
You can reach Ticketmaster Fan Support by:
- Calling their support line at (800) 653-8000
- Connecting with them on Facebook or Twitter
- Initiating a chat session on their website
- Contacting support through the Ticketmaster mobile app
When you reach a support agent, they will assist with troubleshooting your phone verification issue so you can complete your ticket purchase. Make sure to have your order number handy when you contact Ticketmaster support regarding phone verification.
