Buying tickets to see Taylor Swift in concert can be extremely difficult due to high demand. Unfortunately, scammers often take advantage of eager fans trying to get tickets. Knowing the signs of a ticket scam can help you avoid losing money. This article will provide tips on how to spot scams and get real tickets to see Taylor Swift.
Why Taylor Swift Tickets are Susceptible to Scams
Taylor Swift is one of the most popular music artists in the world. Her concert tickets regularly sell out in minutes. Supply is very limited while demand is extremely high. These conditions create a prime environment for scammers to trick fans. Swifties desperately want to see their favorite singer live. Scammers exploit this desperation to sell fake tickets and make quick money. Staying vigilant is crucial when buying high demand Swift tickets.
Most Common Taylor Swift Ticket Scams
Here are some of the most prevalent scams that target Swift fans:
- Fake third-party seller websites – Shady websites pretend to sell real tickets but just take your money.
- Individual scammers on resale sites – Scammers list fake tickets on legitimate resale platforms.
- Social media scams – Beware of too good to be true deals on sites like Craigslist.
- Phishing emails – Emails containing links to fake ticket sales websites.
- Stubhub scams – Fraudulent sellers list tickets on Stubhub that they never intend to deliver.
Awareness of these common techniques is the first step in avoiding scams.
How to Spot Taylor Swift Ticket Scams
Here are some tips for recognizing scams when buying Taylor Swift tickets:
Look Out for Red Flags
Some clear warning signs indicate a scam:
- Prices far below face value – Swift tickets that seem too good to be true probably are.
- Requests for unusual payment methods – Scammers may ask for wire transfers or gift cards instead of standard payments.
- Typos and grammatical errors – Shady websites and emails often contain mistakes.
- No customer service contact – Scam websites do not have working phone numbers or email addresses.
- Pushy demands for quick payment – Scammers try to create a false sense of urgency.
Being aware of these red flags can help fans steer clear of scams. Do not ignore warning signs even when desperate for tickets.
Research Sellers and Resale Platforms
Thoroughly vet any ticket sellers and resale platforms before providing payment information. Search for reviews and complaints about sellers online. Only use reputable and authorized resale platforms like Ticketmaster and StubHub. Check that websites have professional designs, encrypted payment processing, and responsive customer service.
Beware of Social Media Deals
Social media can connect you to great ticket deals, but many scams happen there too. Scrutinize social media sellers carefully before buying. Make sure their account seems legitimate with a long history. See if other users have tagged them in previous ticket posts. Conduct all transactions through secure platforms, never pay directly via PayPal, Venmo, etc.
Only Buy Verified Tickets
When purchasing tickets, look for the verified ticket icon and official seat locations. If tickets do not display verification or have unclear seat details, they are likely fake. Purchase only from trusted sellers who can prove they actually have the tickets in hand.
Safest Ways to Buy Taylor Swift Tickets
Here are some low risk options for getting real tickets:
TaylorSwiftTix Presale
Taking advantage of the special TaylorSwiftTix Presale is the best way to get verified tickets directly. Fans must register in advance for the presale and get a special code. This process makes it nearly impossible for scammers to create fake presale tickets.
Official Platinum Seats
Ticketmaster offers high priced Official Platinum seats to deter scalpers and scamming. These seats cost more but are directly from Ticketmaster and 100% verified. This is the safest resale option.
Reputable Resale Sites
StubHub, Vivid Seats, and TicketNetwork are authorized Taylor Swift ticket resellers. They offer buyer guarantees against fraud. Only buy from sellers with excellent ratings and ticket delivery guarantees.
Fan-to-Fan Sale Groups
Join fan groups like Swifities Tix By Fans on Facebook. Fans sell extra tickets to each other safely within the group. Moderators carefully screen all members and sales.
What to Do if You are Scammed
Here are some steps to take if you unfortunately get tricked by a Taylor Swift ticket scam:
- Immediately report the scam website or seller – Alert other fans and get the word out about confirmed scammers operating.
- Inform your bank if money already transferred – Your bank may be able to stop or reverse the charges if they are notified quickly.
- Consider small claims court for significant losses – You can sue proven scammers for damages in small claims court if you have their real contact details.
- Warn resale sites about specific sellers – Stubhub, Vivid Seats, and other platforms will investigate and ban fraudulent seller accounts.
- Post details publicly to prevent further victims – Share who, where, when, and how you were scammed online to help other Swifties learn.
Reporting scams whenever they occur can help get fraudulent sellers removed and prevent future fans from being tricked.
Key Takeaways to Avoid Taylor Swift Ticket Scams
Here are the essential tips covered:
- Watch for red flags like cheap prices, unusual payments, and lack of seller verification.
- Thoroughly research resellers, sales platforms, and individuals selling.
- Only buy 100% verified tickets showing official seating assignments.
- Utilize the presale, platinum seats, authorized resale sites, and vetted fan groups.
- Immediately report any scams you encounter to legitimate platforms.
Staying vigilant, trusting your instincts, and using secure platforms are the best ways to get real Taylor Swift tickets. Don’t let scammers dampen your hopes of seeing a Taylor concert. Outsmart them by following the advice above.
Conclusion
Taylor Swift scams target overeager fans desperate to see their favorite singer live. Scammers exploit this demand using a variety of shady techniques to sell fake tickets. Stay aware of the most common scams like fake websites, resale site fraud, social media traps, and phishing emails. Look for red flags when buying tickets. Only purchase verified seats from reputable sellers and platforms. Use the presale, platinum seats, trusted resale sites, and carefully vetted fan groups when possible. Report any scams immediately to prevent future victims. Stay vigilant and get those real Taylor Swift tickets by following this guide!