Urgent Alert: How to Avoid Ticket Scams for Upcoming Concerts

UPDATE: As concert season heats up, fans are warned about the rising risk of ticket scams, particularly for highly sought-after events like Electric Picnic and Oasis concerts in Dublin. With tickets selling out rapidly, desperate buyers must tread carefully to avoid losing money to scam artists.

Just announced: New regulations state that selling tickets for live events above face value is illegal as of July 2021. This applies to events with high demand and venues accommodating over 1,000 people. Violating these rules could lead to fines reaching up to €100,000 or even two years in jail.

Consumers are urged to purchase tickets only from official sellers to ensure safety. Citizens Information advises paying with credit or debit cards whenever possible, avoiding cash or bank transfers, which are common tactics used by scammers.

When buying from unofficial sellers, buyers should verify the seller’s identity, total ticket price, delivery method, and cancellation policies. Failure to do so can lead to loss of money, especially if the event is canceled. Additionally, some venues restrict entry to the ticket holder’s name, complicating resale transactions.

With the excitement for upcoming concerts, fans are reminded to stay vigilant. Tickets for Electric Picnic are in high demand, and scammers are ready to exploit those eager to attend.

Consumers should remember that Irish and EU consumer laws do not protect private sales, leaving buyers with limited recourse if a transaction goes wrong. If you find yourself a victim of a scam, contact the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) for assistance.

In this fast-paced environment, the best defense against ticket fraud is awareness and caution. Don’t let the thrill of live music turn into a financial headache. Share this vital information to help others avoid becoming targets of these scams.