Scam artists have their sights set on eager ticket buyers, with the Attorney General of Illinois issuing a warning to be vigilant. As reported by the Illinois Attorney General's Office, Kwame Raoul has sounded the alarm on the increasing prevalence of ticket scams. These scams target consumers looking to purchase passes for the upcoming slew of spring and summer events, which include concerts, festivals, and sports games.
With the convenience of smartphones and online marketplaces come inherent risks, Raoul mentioned. As tickets go on sale and anticipation builds, the lure of securing a spot at these events is ripe for exploitation by those with malicious intent. Raoul cautioned, "The proliferation of smart phones and online marketplaces have fundamentally changed the way many tickets are purchased for concerts, sports and other entertainment events," which the Attorney General's office released in a statement. He further explained the double-edged sword of technology, stating, "While the emergence of smart technology has simplified our lives, bad actors use that same technology to take advantage of consumers."
Residents are encouraged by Raoul to follow a series of recommendations before proceeding with their purchases. First, it's essential to verify the legitimacy of websites, looking for secure connections indicated by “https” and a lock graphic in the search bar. Second, understanding who officially sells the tickets for the venue can be a critical measure against fraud. Raoul suggests confirming whether the broker is associated with professional bodies like the National Association of Ticket Brokers and the Better Business Bureau.
The Attorney General emphasized the importance of using credit cards for purchases as they offer an added layer of protection against fraudulent sales. Methods of payment such as gift cards, peer-to-peer apps, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency should be treated with suspicion, he warned. "Do not pay for a ticket with a gift card, peer-to-peer transaction app, wire transfer or cryptocurrency," said Raoul, as noted by the guidance on the Attorney General's website. Consumers are further advised to call venues to verify the validity of wristbands or tickets and understand the terms of the sale, including how and when the tickets will be delivered.
For those who feel they may have fallen victim to a scam, the Attorney General's office has provided a means for recourse. Complaints can be filed on the Attorney General's website, with Raoul encouraging individuals to take action if they find themselves deceived. The risks associated with buy-now-pay-later and layaway products in ticket purchases were also a point of discussion, with an emphasis on understanding payment plans and their potential impact on credit scores.
Illinoisans can find more information on the Attorney General's website and can also reach out to the provided Consumer Fraud Hotlines should they require assistance or wish to report an incident.
