Social media scammers are selling non-existent World Cup tickets for large sums, cautioned anti-fraud authorities. Recent research reveals a 36% surge in football ticket scams in the UK over six months, resulting in victims losing an average of £215 per season, a 40% increase from the previous year.
With the upcoming World Cup, experts anticipate fraudsters targeting fans, particularly due to the high ticket prices. FIFA has faced criticism for raising ticket costs to almost £25,000 for the tournament in the US, Mexico, and Canada.
Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director at Lloyds, emphasized that scammers exploit fans seeking sought-after tickets for major matches, often initiating scams on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram before moving communication to WhatsApp and insisting on bank transfers.
It is predicted that online scammers will employ tactics like creating fake waiting lists to pressure victims. Analysis of numerous scam cases identified fans of Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United as the most vulnerable targets from October 2025 to March 2026.
Fraud Minister Lord Hanson advised fans to only purchase tickets directly from FIFA or the FIFA Resale Marketplace to avoid falling victim to scams, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and using official ticketing channels.
Earlier this year, ministers launched a new Fraud Strategy, including a £31 million investment for a new Online Crime Centre to combat fraudulent activities and enhance support for victims.