CALIFORNIA – As excitement builds around Super Bowl LX, attorney general Rob Bonta is warning fans to be vigilant against ticket scams that could cost them money and personal data.
Ticket fraud is common around major events, and scammers often exploit last‑minute demand by selling counterfeit or invalid tickets online. To help consumers protect themselves, the California Department of Justice has outlined several practical steps to avoid becoming a victim.
“Today I remind Californians: If you see hawking — or suspicious ticket reselling — protect yourself by following the tips we provide,” Bonta said.
- Buy from Authorized Sellers Only
Always purchase tickets directly from official sources such as the NFL’s official site, the stadium box office, or verified ticketing partners. Scammers often pose as legitimate sellers on third‑party platforms.
- Understand Refund Policies
Before buying resale tickets, check the seller’s refund and guarantee policies. A clear refund policy can protect you if tickets turn out to be fake or never arrive.
- Protect Your Personal Information
Never share sensitive data like your Social Security number or bank information when purchasing tickets. Scammers sometimes use fraudulent ticket sales to harvest personal information.
- Verify Website Safety
Look for “https://” and a padlock icon in the web address before entering payment information. These indicate the site has basic security measures in place.
- Do Your Research
Search for reviews and any customer complaints about a ticket seller before buying. Established sellers with a history of complaints are riskier than those with positive reviews.
- Use Secure Payment Methods
Use a credit card when possible, because credit card companies typically offer better fraud protection than instant payment apps like Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, prepaid debit cards, or cryptocurrency for ticket purchases.
- Be Wary of “Too Good to Be True” Deals
Tickets priced far below market value are a classic red flag for scams. If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
If you believe you’ve encountered a scam, the attorney general’s office encourages you to file a complaint online, and you can also report fraudulent activity to the Better Business Bureau or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
