Buying tickets from a ticket scalper is a common practice for people looking to attend popular concerts, games, and other events. However, there are some risks and legal issues involved with buying scalped tickets. This article examines whether you can get in trouble for buying tickets from a scalper.
What is a Ticket Scalper?
A ticket scalper, also sometimes known as a ticket broker, is someone who buys event tickets with the intention of reselling them for a profit. Scalpers typically get their inventory by purchasing large quantities of tickets as soon as sales open to the general public. They then immediately list the tickets for resale at marked-up prices on secondary marketplaces like StubHub or Craigslist.
Scalpers take advantage of the difference between the original face value of the tickets and the much higher prices that people are willing to pay to guarantee entry to popular events. They essentially act as middlemen, acquiring tickets that are likely to be in high demand so they can sell them to willing buyers at inflated prices.
Is It Legal to Buy From a Scalper?
In most cases, it is perfectly legal to purchase tickets from a scalper. The scalper is the one violating the law in most jurisdictions by reselling tickets solely for profit. As the buyer, you are typically not breaking any laws by buying the marked-up tickets.
However, there are some exceptions. Many states have laws restricting ticket resales for extremely high-demand events. For example, some states make it illegal to resell tickets to concerts, games, or shows that are expected to sell out well in advance if the resale is for more than the face value. Buying scalped tickets above face value for these types of events could potentially expose you to penalties.
You should also be aware that buying fake or stolen tickets is illegal. Some scalpers sell counterfeit or illegally obtained tickets. If you knowingly purchase invalid or stolen tickets, you could face criminal charges.
Risks of Buying From Scalpers
While buying from a scalper is not illegal in most cases, there are some risks involved that you should consider:
- You may get ripped off and sold fake or invalid tickets.
- Tickets purchased from scalpers are often non-refundable.
- You have no recourse if tickets are lost or stolen before the event.
- Tickets could be overpriced compared to face value.
- Scalped tickets may be located in less desirable parts of the venue.
Reputable ticket brokers try to minimize these risks by offering guarantees and other protections. But disreputable scalpers may try to take advantage of buyers.
Tips for Safely Buying From Scalpers
If you decide to buy tickets from a scalper, here are some tips to reduce your chances of problems:
- Try to buy from an established ticket broker instead of an unknown seller.
- Meet in person and verify tickets are legitimate before paying.
- Avoid paying with cash or wiring money – use credit cards instead.
- Make sure there is a money-back guarantee in case of issues.
- Check for any restrictions printed on the tickets.
- research or contact the box office to confirm ticket policies for the event.
- Consider buying ticket insurance to protect against lost or stolen tickets.
Things That Could Get You in Trouble
While simply buying marked up tickets is not illegal in most cases, there are some specific actions that could potentially get you in trouble with the law when buying from scalpers:
- Knowingly buying stolen or counterfeit tickets.
- Purchasing tickets you know are being resold illegally based on state laws.
- Buying tickets to resell them yourself at inflated prices.
- Physically fighting or threatening a scalper during a ticket transaction.
- Trespassing or creating a public nuisance while trying to buy tickets.
- Buying tickets obtained through hacking, bots, or unauthorized access.
As long as you are careful to avoid these types of issues, buying tickets from a scalper will generally not cause legal problems. Use common sense and caution when dealing with scalpers.
Alternatives to Buying From Scalpers
To avoid the risks and hassles of buying from scalpers, you may want to consider some alternative options to get tickets:
- Purchase tickets through official sources like primary ticket sellers when they first go on sale.
- Join fan clubs or mailing lists to get access to presale tickets.
- Enter ticket lotteries or wait in ticket lines at box offices.
- Use ticket search engines to find available tickets at regular prices.
- Wait until close to the event date – prices sometimes drop as it approaches.
- Consider VIP packages that include great seats with other benefits.
Conclusion
Buying tickets from a scalper is not illegal in most cases. However, there are risks involved, including getting ripped off or sold invalid tickets. Use caution when buying from scalpers – deal only with reputable sellers, verify tickets, and avoid paying in risky ways. Ultimately, your best options are to buy from official sellers or find tickets at regular prices instead of paying inflated scalper prices.