The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is urging soccer fans to stay alert for scams as the FIFA World Cup approaches.
State officials say major sporting events attract not only fans from around the world, but also scammers looking to take advantage of the excitement. Common schemes include fake tickets, counterfeit ticket sales, phishing attempts, travel scams, fake merchandise stores, bogus giveaways designed to steal personal information, and fraudulent streaming websites.
“As visitors descend from around the world with plenty of enthusiasm for their favorite team, it is also a time to be aware that scammers are looking to get ahead of the game and get easy money from unsuspecting fans, willing to pay higher prices,” Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said. “As the FIFA World Cup is ready to start, millions of soccer buffs are ready to create memories that last a lifetime, and the Division of Consumer Protection reminds New Yorkers and visitors alike to follow these tips to enjoy this great world-wide event away from bad actors attempting to steal your money or personal information.”
Tips to Avoid FIFA World Cup Scams
Be cautious of phishing attempts
Officials warn that phishing emails, texts, phone calls, and websites often increase around major sporting events. Scammers may pose as FIFA organizers, ticket sellers, travel providers, or streaming services in an attempt to steal passwords, banking information, or other personal data. Consumers are advised to verify sources and avoid clicking suspicious links or downloading unexpected attachments.
Buy tickets only from official sources
Fans should purchase tickets through official FIFA channels and carefully review website addresses before making purchases. Scammers often create convincing websites with URLs that closely resemble legitimate sites.
Watch for fake tickets
Fraudulent tickets are commonly advertised through social media, online marketplaces, and classified websites. Scammers may provide realistic-looking screenshots, barcodes, or confirmation emails. Officials advise avoiding sellers who request payment outside an official ticketing platform.
Use official resale platforms
When purchasing resold tickets, consumers should use authorized resale services that facilitate secure ticket transfers and payments.
Research the seller
Officials recommend checking reviews, confirming a seller’s contact information, and verifying that ticket details match official event information. Consumers can also confirm whether a seller is licensed and use resources such as VerifiedTicketSource.com to check the legitimacy of ticket brokers.
Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true
Scammers frequently advertise unusually low prices for tickets, hotels, or travel to lure victims. Consumers should compare prices with market rates and watch for hidden fees. Officials remind consumers that suspiciously low prices are often a warning sign of fraud.
Use a credit card when possible
Credit cards generally provide stronger consumer protections than debit cards, payment apps, gift cards, or cash. Scammers often prefer payment methods that are difficult to trace or reverse.
Purchase transportation through official channels
Officials also warn fans attending matches at MetLife Stadium to purchase transportation only through official NJ Transit sources or the NYNJ FIFA World Cup Host Committee’s shuttle service. Discounted transportation offers from unofficial sources may be fraudulent.
Consumers who believe they have been the victim of fraud can file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.FTC.gov.
