Facebook Marketplace Is the Number One Platform for Concert Ticket Scams, Oasis Fans Most Targeted

Facebook Marketplace Is the Number One Platform for Concert Ticket Scams, Oasis Fans Most Targeted

By Marcus Hartley

November 18, 2024 at 12:16 AM

Fake tickets displayed on mobile screens

Fake tickets displayed on mobile screens

Facebook Marketplace has become the primary platform for ticket scams, with 90% of ticket fraud occurring through social media, according to a new Lloyds Bank report. The study reveals that Oasis reunion tour tickets account for 70% of all concert ticket scams since August 27, with victims losing an average of £346 ($450).

People aged 35-44 are most frequently targeted, representing 31% of fraud reports. Scammers particularly focus on high-profile events like Oasis, Taylor Swift, and Adele concerts, where legitimate tickets already command premium prices.

Key ways to avoid ticket scams:

  • Purchase only from official sources like venues and Ticketmaster
  • Avoid deals that seem too good to be true
  • Never use bank transfers, wire transfers, or cash transfer services
  • Use credit cards for better fraud protection
  • Be wary of social media listings, especially on Facebook Marketplace

Scammers typically operate in two waves: when tickets first go on sale and as the event date approaches. Despite Facebook Marketplace's policy prohibiting ticket sales, fraudulent listings continue to appear, with scammers requesting bank transfers through social media channels.

The fraud typically involves fake advertisements, social media listings, or heavily discounted tickets for sold-out events, with some victims reporting losses up to £1,000 ($1,303).

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