Trying to buy tickets on Ticketmaster but getting blocked for looking like a bot? You’re not alone. With high demand events selling out in seconds, Ticketmaster has put measures in place to try to stop bots from snatching up all the tickets. Unfortunately, this can sometimes result in real fans getting caught up and accused of being bots. Don’t worry, there are steps you can take to prove you’re human and get your hands on those coveted tickets.
Why does Ticketmaster think I’m a bot?
Ticketmaster uses bot detection technology that analyzes user behavior on their website to determine if you seem more like an automated bot or a real person. Some things that might trigger their bot filter include:
- Using auto-refresh browser extensions or scripts to rapidly refresh for tickets
- Having multiple browser tabs open to the ticket page
- Making rapid-fire searches or selections
- Entering captchas incorrectly multiple times
- Using VPNs or proxy IP addresses
- Purchasing a high volume of tickets very quickly
Essentially any activity that seems inhumanly fast or efficient is likely to raise red flags. The problem is, die-hard fans can sometimes exhibit similar behaviors in their desperation to get tickets. But there are ways you can convince Ticketmaster you’re not a bot.
Tips for proving you’re not a bot
Here are some tips to help convince Ticketmaster you’re a real human user:
- Avoid auto-refreshing – Manually refresh the page yourself at reasonable intervals.
- Only open one browser tab – Don’t overload Ticketmaster with searches from multiple tabs.
- Slow down – Try not to click or search too rapidly. Perform actions at a human pace.
- Pay attention to captchas – Carefully enter any captcha prompts correctly the first time.
- Use your home IP address – Don’t hide behind a VPN or proxy that masks your location.
- Limit ticket purchases – Only buy a modest number of tickets, not the full allotment.
- Use a mobile device – Bots tend to target desktop traffic, so sometimes mobile works better.
- Ensure cookies/cache enabled – Bots don’t use cookies, so make sure they’re enabled in your browser.
Essentially, the key is to use the site as a normal user would. Don’t try to “hack” the system with shortcuts that seem bot-like. If you get blocked, try clearing your cookies and cache to remove any bot flags on your browser.
What to do if Ticketmaster still thinks you’re a bot
If you’ve taken precautions but Ticketmaster still seems convinced you’re a bot, don’t panic. Here are some next steps to take:
- Contact customer support – Explain your situation and request they review your account activity.
- Provide identifying information – Your name, address, and last 4 digits of your credit card can help prove your identity.
- Note purchase history – Point out previous real purchases you’ve made if you have an account history.
- Try again later – Sometimes resetting and waiting before trying again does the trick.
- Use a different device – A phone, tablet, or different computer may avoid flags on your usual device.
- Clear cookies/cache – Wipe your browser history to remove any remnants that trigger blocks.
- Use a different payment method – If your cards are getting declined, try alternate ones.
- Try general sale – Onsales often have less bot activity so you may have better luck.
With persistence and patience, you should be able to demonstrate to Ticketmaster that you are indeed a real human user. It may take jumping through some hoops, but valid customers get through bot defenses every day. Don’t let the bots beat you!
Preventing issues in the future
Once you’ve successfully acquired tickets, there are steps you can take to avoid bot troubles on future Ticketmaster purchases:
- Create a Ticketmaster account – This establishes a purchase history tied to you.
- Ensure your account is fully verified – Confirm your identity and payment methods.
- Limit searches prior to sales – Excessive searching can seem bot-like.
- Avoid use of auto-fillers/form-filling browser extensions at checkout.
- Use the mobile app – Bots find it much harder to operate in apps.
- Only open Ticketmaster in one browser tab.
- Disable cookie/cache clearing extensions or settings that may erase your identity.
- Sign up for Ticketmaster Verified Fan when available – This pre-verifies you’re not a bot.
Ticket buying bots operate in high volume and at lightning speeds humans can’t match. As long as you use Ticketmaster’s website like a normal person, you should be able to demonstrate you’re a real fan. With some care taken to avoid triggers, you can minimize bot suspicions and get those coveted tickets hassle-free.
Common questions about Ticketmaster bot detections
Why did my credit card get declined?
There are a few reasons your credit card may get declined on Ticketmaster:
- Your card was flagged for suspected bot activity or high risk transactions
- There are insufficient funds in your account
- Your billing address doesn’t match the card issuer’s records
- Your credit card company blocked the international transaction
- Your card has expired or been deactivated
Contact your card issuer to sort out any bank-level blocks or mismatches. For bot flags, provide your information and purchase history to demonstrate it’s really you.
Can I use multiple devices to buy tickets?
You can attempt to buy tickets from multiple devices, but it increases your risk of triggering bot defenses. Your best bet is to only use one device and browser. If you do use multiples, make absolutely sure you are logged into the same Ticketmaster account on each, use each device sparingly, and complete purchases on just one.
Why am I getting captcha prompts?
Getting repeated captchas when searching for tickets often means their system has flagged your activity as suspicious and bot-like. Ensure you are solving captchas fully and correctly. Also, avoid searching too quickly, refresh slowly, and close any extra browser tabs open to Ticketmaster to appear more human.
Can I automate the ticket buying process?
No, attempting to automate or script any part of the Ticketmaster ticket buying process could get your account permanently banned. Bots are strictly forbidden. You must manually navigate the website and checkout process yourself like any other user.
Is it safe to buy tickets on the secondary market?
Buying from unauthorized ticket resellers carries risks. Fake tickets, exorbitantly marked up prices, and scams are common. When possible, always try to purchase tickets directly from Ticketmaster’s primary sales. If buying second-hand, only use trusted companies like StubHub with purchase guarantees.
What if I’m sharing a device with someone else trying for tickets?
If you and a friend are both trying for tickets on the same device, make absolutely sure you are logged into your own separate accounts. Log out fully between attempts. Also, avoid having multiple windows or tabs open at the same time, as this is a red flag.