There are a few potential reasons why you may be experiencing issues accessing Ticketmaster services or getting blocked when trying to purchase tickets:
Too many login attempts
Ticketmaster has security measures in place to prevent bots and scalpers from abusing their system. If you enter an incorrect password too many times when logging in, Ticketmaster may temporarily lock your account. This is to protect your account from potential hacking attempts.
If this is the cause, you simply need to wait out the temporary block, which is usually an hour or less. Be sure you’re using the correct login email and password combination next time to avoid further locks.
IP address block
Similarly, if Ticketmaster detects suspicious activity like an abnormal number of requests coming from a specific IP address, they may block that IP as a precaution. This often happens if you share an IP with other household members or coworkers who may be trying to access Ticketmaster excessively.
To resolve an IP block, you’ll need to either wait it out or request a new IP from your Internet Service Provider. Using a VPN or proxy service can also provide you with a different IP to circumvent the block.
Billing or payment issues
If there are any problems with the billing information or payment method you have on file with Ticketmaster, this can sometimes lead to blocks when you attempt purchases. For example:
- Expired or invalid credit card on file
- Failed payment authorizations
- Reaching a purchase limit on a debit card
- Suspected fraudulent activity
Updating your payment details or contacting your bank or card provider can help identify and resolve any underlying payment problems. You may need to go through an extra verification process with Ticketmaster to remove the block.
Account flagged for suspicious activity
If Ticketmaster detects activity on your account that appears suspicious or violates their Terms of Service, they may restrict your access. Some examples include:
- Mass purchases or bulk orders
- Using bots or automated tools
- Reselling tickets above face value
- Providing inaccurate account information
You’ll need to contact Ticketmaster customer support for account reviews if you believe your account was flagged in error. However, restrictions are usually imposed for good reason in the interest of fairness and preventing scalping or other abuse.
Temporary technical issues
Less commonly, users may encounter access problems due to temporary technical glitches on Ticketmaster’s end. Heavy traffic and outages can occasionally disrupt services and lead to errors or blocking. Typically these are resolved within hours as their technical team works to address any issues.
If problems persist, it’s a good idea to check Ticketmaster’s social media pages or Help Center for updates on any known outstanding technical issues. You may just need to try again later.
Account deactivated
If your Ticketmaster account is fully deactivated or banned, this is the most severe form of blocking access. Some reasons your account may get permanently deactivated include:
- Committing fraud or purchasing tickets illegally
- Abusing promotions or subscription discounts
- Harassing other users or Ticketmaster staff
Getting a deactivated account reinstated is difficult and unlikely in most cases. You would need to appeal directly to Ticketmaster with evidence to show the deactivation was unwarranted.
How to get unblocked
Here are some tips to get your Ticketmaster access unblocked:
- If blocked for failed logins, wait an hour and retry with correct details
- For an IP block, request a new IP or use a VPN/proxy
- Update billing info and payment details if issues there
- Get account reviews if suspected improper flagging
- Wait out temporary technical issues and try again later
- Appeal account deactivation if extremely serious
Preventative measures you can take include:
- Avoid sharing login details or accounts
- Use unique, complex passwords
- Keep payment information up to date
- Only access Ticketmaster from trusted networks/devices
- Don’t violate Terms of Service or attempt illegal activities
Why does Ticketmaster block accounts?
Ticketmaster blocks accounts for the following main reasons:
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Failed logins | Blocking access after too many incorrect password attempts to prevent hacking |
| Suspicious IP address | Blocking IPs that show suspicious patterns of activity or requests |
| Payment issues | Restricting access when credit cards fail or fraud is detected |
| ToS violations | Blocking accounts engaging in bulk orders, scalping, bots, etc. |
| Technical issues | Temporary blocking due to platform problems or glitches |
| Deactivated account | Permanently blocking an account for serious offenses |
The main goals are protecting users, securing data, enforcing policies, and maintaining performance and fairness. Access restrictions help accomplish these goals.
How long do Ticketmaster blocks last?
The duration of Ticketmaster account blocks includes:
- Failed login blocks typically last an hour or less
- IP address blocks may last 1-3 days in most cases
- Payment blocks remain until billing details are updated
- Policy violation blocks vary from days to weeks depending on severity
- Technical blocks are the shortest, often lasting a few hours
- Permanent deactivations are indefinite
The length depends on the reason for blocking and details of the situation. Temporary blocks usually get lifted automatically. Longer or permanent ones require contacting support.
Can Ticketmaster bans be appealed?
In some cases, Ticketmaster access blocks and bans can be appealed. Here are some guidelines:
- Failed login or IP bans cannot be appealed – just wait them out
- Payment bans can’t be appealed, but resolve payment issues to lift them
- Policy violations may allow appeals depending on context
- Permanent deactivations can be appealed but rarely overturned
To appeal a block, contact Ticketmaster customer support. Explain the situation in detail and provide any evidence that the block was unwarranted. Allow 1-2 weeks for a review. If your appeal is successful, the block will get lifted from your account.
Preventing Ticketmaster account blocks
You can take the following steps to avoid getting blocked by Ticketmaster in the future:
- Use unique, complex passwords and don’t share logins
- Keep payment details up to date to avoid failed transactions
- Only access Ticketmaster from personal devices on trusted networks
- Never engage in unauthorized bulk orders or reselling
- Don’t use bots, automation tools, or scripts
Following Ticketmaster’s Terms of Service closely and using your account ethically and legally will help minimize your risk of blocks.
Using a new account after being blocked
If you create a new Ticketmaster account after being blocked, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Use brand new account details – don’t reuse old usernames or passwords
- Register with a different email address and payment method
- Use a new IP address not associated with your old account
- Avoid further violations that may trigger new blocks
However, repeat serious offenses on new accounts may result in additional blocks or permanent blacklisting. Proceed with caution and make an effort to follow policies moving forward.
Conclusion
Ticketmaster account blocks are usually temporary and can be resolved by waiting them out, updating billing details, or appealing to customer support. Permanent deactivations are harder to overturn but may be possible with evidence of improper banning. To avoid future blocks, use unique account credentials, follow policies, and refrain from suspicious behavior when accessing Ticketmaster services.