BBB Tip of the Week: Ensure your tickets to the big bowl games are legit
It’s been an amazing college football season in the Northwest. As we don our favorite college colors and root for our Huskies, Cougars, Vandals and Eagles, it is easy to get swept away in the excitement.
If you are thinking of taking the plunge to go see your favorite team play in the biggest game of the season, you don’t want to get there only to find out the tickets you have are fake. Keep these things in mind during your quest for a memorable sporting experience:
Buy tickets from the school or a reputable ticket reseller. Scammers are counting on dedicated fans to look for “the best seats in the house” and will play on your desire to get that coveted sideline experience. If the seller is offering the tickets at or below face-value, there is a good chance it is a scam. If you aren’t sure about the source, ask the seller for proof of purchase like an invoice enabling you to verify its validity. The seller’s name should be on the invoice. Online classified and auction sites can be a breeding ground for ticket scammers.
Pay by credit card. Con artists ask for payment to be wired or even by using gift cards and prepaid credit cards. It’s best to use credit cards so charges can be contested after the transaction. When paying by credit card online, make sure the website is secure and has https: with the lock symbol icon in the browser.
Verify your accommodations. Sporting events create a significant demand on the hospitality industry which can lead to rate increases. Some travelers look for alternative lodging online. Be vigilant about the agreement details before you provide credit card information. Look for suspicious fees and cancellation or change penalties. Be wary if the host requests you to complete a document with your personal information like date of birth, social security or driver’s license for a background check. They may be phishing for personal information for ID theft.
Cheering on your team is easy, getting to the game can be complicated. Make sure you are getting the experience of your dreams. Anyone who feels they’ve been a victim of ID theft or a scam should report it to local law enforcement and BBB Scam Tracker.