Many iPhone users have recently reported getting bot errors when trying to purchase tickets on Ticketmaster. This can be frustrating as it prevents fans from securing seats to highly sought after shows and events. There are a few potential reasons why Ticketmaster bot errors may occur on iPhones specifically.
High Ticket Demand Overloads Servers
For very popular concerts and shows, ticket demand far exceeds the supply of seats available. As soon as tickets go on sale, Ticketmaster’s servers get hit with millions of requests all at once from fans trying to purchase. This sudden spike in traffic can sometimes cause errors or glitches, resulting in bot error messages for some users. The volume of requests simply overwhelms the servers before tickets can sell out.
Bots Used by Scalpers
Professional ticket scalpers often use software bots to try and buy up large quantities of tickets as soon as they go on sale. These bots can request tickets much faster than a normal human user. Ticketmaster has security measures in place try and detect and block these bots. However, the bot detection system is not always perfect. Some bots may get flagged incorrectly, resulting in regular users receiving a dreaded “bot error” message.
Compatibility Issues with Safari on iPhone
Technical incompatibilities between Ticketmaster’s website code and the Safari browser on iPhones is another potential culprit. Safari handles website traffic differently than other major browsers like Chrome or Firefox. If Ticketmaster’s code contains bugs or issues with Safari integration, it could cause errors for iPhone users specifically. Trying to load the Ticketmaster website on an iPhone triggers the bot error, while other devices connected to the same WiFi network can load the site normally.
Too Many Tabs Open on iPhone
Many anxious fans try to increase their odds of getting tickets by opening multiple browsing tabs right before the sale starts. However, having too many tabs open can sometimes cause connectivity issues. Browser resources get stretched too thin trying to load multiple Ticketmaster tabs at the exact same time. This can manifest as bot errors for some of the open tabs. The best practice is to only have one tab open when trying to purchase high demand tickets.
Using Mobile Data Instead of WiFi
Being on a WiFi network provides a much more robust and glitch-free connection than mobile data. In the frenzy of a popular ticket sale, some users may forget to connect to WiFi in advance and are stuck using 4G/5G mobile data. Mobile data connections have lower bandwidth and are more prone to coverage interruptions. A brief hiccup in mobile connectivity as tickets go on sale can result in bot errors. Always make sure to use a solid WiFi network when purchasing tickets.
Ticketmaster App vs Mobile Website
Ticketmaster has both a mobile ticketing app and a mobile formatted website. When trying to purchase super high demand tickets, it’s best to use the mobile website over the app. App optimization issues or glitches could cause bot errors even when the website loads smoothly. Apps require downloading and more network requests than mobile websites. Stick to Safari or Chrome on iPhone for the most direct path to purchasing tickets.
Unclear Error Messages
It’s important to remember that generic “bot error” messages do not always mean you were flagged incorrectly as an automated bot or scalper. Various technical issues between Ticketmaster’s system and your iPhone could produce similar kinds of error messages. So don’t assume you have been IP banned or completely blocked from purchasing. Keep trying periodically, use a WiFi connection, limit other apps running in the background, and only have one tab open to maximize your chances of getting through.
Troubleshooting Steps
Here are some troubleshooting steps to try if you keep encountering Ticketmaster bot errors on an iPhone when attempting to purchase tickets:
- Make sure your iPhone software is updated to the latest iOS version. Older iOS versions may have incompatibilities.
- Only have the Ticketmaster website open in one browser tab.
- Connect your iPhone to a stable/strong WiFi network.
- Force close other apps and limit background processes.
- Try using Chrome for iPhone instead of Safari.
- Try a computer instead of your iPhone.
- Try using the Ticketmaster mobile website instead of the app.
- If all else fails, contact Ticketmaster customer support.
Preventative Steps for Next Time
Here are some tips to hopefully avoid bot errors in the future when hot tickets go on sale:
- Use a laptop/desktop on WiFi instead of an iPhone if possible.
- Ensure your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS.
- Only have one browser tab open to Ticketmaster.
- Don’t open the Ticketmaster app, use the mobile website.
- Disable other apps and limit background processes on your iPhone.
- Use a VPN connection to help get a more reliable signal.
- Clear browser history and cookies before attempting to purchase.
The Reality of High Demand
Despite best efforts, there is no guarantee of getting tickets to extremely popular events. With millions of other fans competing for a very limited amount of seats, bot errors are bound to happen no matter what device you use. Don’t take errors personally. Keep trying if tickets are still available, but accept that you may not succeed in purchasing due to incredibly high demand.
Bot Prevention Methods
Ticketmaster utilizes a number of tactics to try and identify and block bots used by scalpers. Some of these bot prevention methods include:
- Analyzing browsing patterns – bots tend to click and navigate sites differently than humans.
- Limiting ticket purchases – only allowing a certain number of ticket purchases per credit card.
- CAPTCHAS – requiring users to verify they are not bots by solving puzzles/tests.
- Device fingerprinting – tracking identifiers of devices to look for bot patterns.
However, sophisticated bots are constantly finding new ways to try and circumvent these measures. There is an ongoing arms race between Ticketmaster developers and scalpers programming ticket bots. No bot prevention system is foolproof and false positives occasionally happen, resulting in bot errors for legitimate human customers.
Contact Ticketmaster Support
If you are repeatedly getting bot errors that prevent you from purchasing tickets, it’s best to directly contact Ticketmaster customer support. They may be able to troubleshoot the issues you are experiencing and possibly whitelist your account if you were incorrectly flagged. Reach out to Ticketmaster via:
- Live online chat on their website
- Email: [email protected]
- By phone: 1-800-653-8000
Explain your situation in detail andTicketmaster reps may be able to resolve bot errors persisting on your iPhone.
Use an Alternative Ticket Site
Frustrated with bot errors on Ticketmaster? Consider purchasing tickets through alternate ticket sites and exchanges like StubHub, VividSeats, SeatGeek, or Craigslist. Resellers on these sites may offer tickets to sold out events at inflated prices. But at least you likely won’t run into bot error issues compared to buying directly through Ticketmaster. Be careful to only purchase from authorized ticket resale marketplaces or reputable individuals.
Check for Presales and Promo Codes
Taking advantage of special presales and promo codes can improve your chances of getting tickets before they sell out. Presales allow purchasing tickets before the general public sale. Promo codes are unique codes that give early access. Follow artists social media accounts, join fan clubs, and sign up for Ticketmaster newsletters to be notified of presales and codes. This cuts down on competition from the general masses.
Use Multiple Devices
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. When highly coveted tickets go on sale, don’t just use your iPhone. Have friends/family members also trying on their computers and mobile devices all at the same time. Multiple devices means multiple chances. Assign each person different sections/price levels to target. Coordinate your efforts for the best odds of beating the hordes and scoring tickets.
Conclusion
Bot errors on Ticketmaster for iPhone users are generally caused by incredibly high site traffic overwhelming servers, scalper bots snatching up tickets, technical incompatibilities, or connectivity issues on mobile networks. While frustrating, don’t take it as a personal failure if you can’t get tickets. Implement troubleshooting steps like updating your iPhone, limiting browser tabs, using WiFi, and contacting support. Be ready at the exact sale start time, utilize presales/promo codes, and use multiple devices to maximize your chances for the most in-demand events. With millions of others vying for very limited tickets, bot errors are inevitable – so keep trying and good luck!