Whether a Ticketmaster barcode can be scanned twice is a common question for ticket buyers. The short answer is no, Ticketmaster barcodes cannot be scanned twice thanks to several security features built into their system.
Why Ticketmaster Barcodes Can Only Be Scanned Once
Ticketmaster utilizes barcode technology that is designed to only allow a single entry per barcode. There are a few key reasons why their barcodes can only be scanned once:
- Unique barcode – Each Ticketmaster ticket has a unique barcode generated specifically for that ticket. No two barcodes are alike. When scanned, it pulls up the details for that unique ticket.
- Barcode linked to ticket status – The barcode is tied to the status of the ticket in Ticketmaster’s system. Once a barcode is scanned, the ticket status is updated to prevent further scans.
- Real-time verification – Ticketmaster’s scanners communicate with their database in real-time. This allows them to instantly cross-check if a barcode has already been scanned and prevent duplicated entries.
These technological measures allow Ticketmaster to effectively prevent barcodes from being scanned more than once. If someone attempts to scan the same barcode again, it will come up as invalid and not allow entry.
What Happens When a Ticketmaster Barcode is Scanned
When a Ticketmaster barcode is scanned for the first time, here is the process that takes place:
- The barcode is read by the scanner and communicates with Ticketmaster’s database.
- The database pulls up the ticket details associated with that unique barcode.
- The ticket status is checked to verify it has not already been scanned.
- If the ticket is valid for entry, the status is updated to “scanned” in real-time.
- The scanner displays a confirmation that the ticket is valid.
- The ticket holder is permitted entry.
As soon as the ticket is scanned, no duplicate scans of the same barcode will be permitted. The scanner will immediately recognize it has already been used for entry and deny access.
What Happens if You Try to Scan a Ticketmaster Barcode Twice?
If someone attempts to scan the same Ticketmaster barcode a second time, here is what will happen:
- The barcode will be read by the scanner as usual.
- When the scanner checks with the Ticketmaster database, the ticket will show up as already scanned.
- The scanner will display an error message that the ticket has already been scanned.
- Entry access will be denied.
Ticketmaster staff may also be notified a duplicate scan was attempted. They can then take any appropriate action such as checking tickets and verifying identity.
Are There Any Exceptions Where a Barcode Could be Scanned Twice?
There are a couple rare instances where a Ticketmaster barcode could potentially be scanned more than once:
- Technical glitches – In the event of a temporary technical failure where the scanner loses connection to the Ticketmaster database, there is a slim chance a barcode could be rescanned. However, most venues will have backup procedures in place.
- Manual system overrides – In exceptional circumstances such as a system outage, staff may resort to manual override and allow barcode rescan. This is extremely rare.
However, under normal circumstances, the Ticketmaster system is designed to prevent any duplicate scans of the same barcode.
Tips to Protect Against Ticket Fraud
To ensure your Ticketmaster tickets cannot be stolen and used by someone else, here are some tips:
- Only buy from trusted sources – Purchase directly from Ticketmaster either online or by phone. Avoid secondary resellers.
- Check security features – Ticketmaster tickets have unique barcodes plus additional security features like holograms.
- Register your tickets – Use Ticketmaster’s Verified Fan system to register your tickets to your identity.
- Use electronic transfer – When transferring tickets, utilize Ticketmaster’s official ticket transfer process.
- Protect barcodes – Avoid posting photos of tickets where others can copy the barcode. Shield barcodes at entry gates.
Conclusion
In summary, Ticketmaster’s barcode system is designed with multiple security layers specifically to prevent duplicate scans of the same ticket. Every Ticketmaster barcode is unique and can only be successfully scanned one time. If a used barcode is scanned again, their scanners will instantly recognize it and deny entry to prevent ticket fraud. While exceptions are possible in extremely rare technical circumstances, Ticketmaster barcodes are overwhelmingly only valid for a single entry.