Trying to get tickets to popular concerts and events can be incredibly difficult these days. Competition is fierce, and tickets often sell out within minutes. Many fans are left frustrated and ticketless. In response, Ticketmaster has introduced their Verified Fan program which aims to make the ticket buying experience more fair for fans. But some crafty fans have found ways to game the Verified Fan system by creating multiple accounts. This article will explore whether using multiple Verified Fan accounts works, the risks involved, and tips for securing tickets as a genuine fan with just one account.
What is Ticketmaster Verified Fan?
Verified Fan is Ticketmaster’s system that helps identify real human fans from bots and scalpers. Fans must register for a Verified Fan code ahead of a tour or event on sale. This code helps prove you are an actual fan interested in attending the event, not just looking to resell tickets. Being verified gives you access to presales and other opportunities to purchase tickets.
Why fans create multiple accounts
The main reason fans create multiple Verified Fan accounts is to try to improve their chances at getting a presale code and buying coveted tickets. Since codes are handed out randomly, some fans think having more accounts equals more chances. Some will create accounts using friends and family member’s names too. It’s an attempt to game the system, as normally each fan is only supposed to have one Verified Fan account.
Does it work to have multiple accounts?
There is debate around whether having multiple Verified Fan accounts actually improves your chances over a single account. Ticketmaster has mechanisms in place to detect suspicious activity and cancelling duplicate registrations. There is no guarantee you will be awarded more codes if you have multiple accounts. And during presales, Ticketmaster monitors IP addresses and payment details to try to limit each fan to 4-6 tickets maximum.
Risks of using multiple accounts
While some crafty fans have managed to secure tickets using multiple accounts, there are risks involved with this method that you need to consider:
- Ticketmaster actively works to detect and cancel duplicate accounts. All your accounts could be deleted.
- You could be flagged for suspicious activity and banned from future Verified Fan opportunities.
- There are strict ticket limits in place during presales. You may not be able to purchase more than 4-6 tickets across all accounts.
- You have to manage and keep track of multiple accounts, codes, and passwords. It’s easy to get confused.
- It’s against Ticketmaster’s Terms of Use. Accounts with fake names or details go against their rules.
Multiple accounts can seem appealing to fans desperate for tickets. But ultimately, the risks often outweigh the rewards.
Tips for securing tickets with one account
While tempting, having multiple accounts is never a sure strategy and comes with the risk of being banned. The good news is that with some preparation and patience, you can absolutely score tickets as a genuine fan with just one Verified Fan account. Here are some legit tips:
- Register early – As soon as registrations open for an event, sign up for the Verified Fan presale. Don’t wait until the last minute.
- Check your status – Log into your Ticketmaster account the day before the presale to confirm your Verified status and see if you were awarded a code.
- Use Ticketmaster apps – Having Ticketmaster apps on multiple devices can help. presales tend to go smoother on mobile.
- Be ready at presale start time – Log in 10-15 mins early and keep refreshing. Have payment details saved to check out faster.
- Aim for upper rows/ends – Fewer fans fight for these seats so they last longer.
- Don’t give up – Keep trying if you don’t score tickets initially. Released tickets popup periodically.
It also helps to be flexible about the number of tickets if you are buying a group. Try for as many as you need, but don’t rule out buying just 1 or 2 initial tickets if that’s all you can get.
Using online fan communities
Joining fan communities on Reddit or Facebook groups for the particular tour or event you want to attend can also give you an advantage. Fans will share presale tips, experiences securing tickets, and report any glitches seen during the onsale. You may find out about special fan club presales or artist Ticketmaster presales to look out for too. Plus if you miss out initially, you may be able to buy a ticket from a verified fan at face value within the group later on.
Alternatives for sold out shows
Despite your best efforts, some events will sell out instantly. When this happens, all hope is not lost! Here are some alternatives to try:
- Check again later – More tickets often get released in the weeks/months leading up to the event as production releases more seats.
- Try reseller sites – StubHub, VividSeats, SeatGeek etc. Verify the tickets but you can sometimes get fair deals.
- Wait until day of event – Last minute tickets frequently popup on Ticketmaster as people’s plans change.
- Go to the venue box office – You may have luck scoring tickets directly at the venue on the day.
The key is to be persistent and have a few backup plans. With smart preparation using your one true Verified Fan account, you can absolutely secure tickets to even the hottest events.
Summary
While some determined fans have managed to get tickets using multiple Verified Fan accounts, this strategy has risks like getting all accounts cancelled. It’s better to focus on using your one true account wisely. Register early, be ready at presale time, use Ticketmaster apps, and leverage fan communities. With preparation and persistence, you can get tickets without needing multiple accounts. And if you lose out initially, all hope is not lost. Keep trying for newly released seats, check resellers, or go to the box office.
Ticket buying can be stressful, but real fans have a good shot at securing tickets with a single Verified Fan account. Outsmart the scalpers and bots with smarter strategies as a genuine fan.
