Urgent warning issued for sports fans ahead of finals season
AFL and NRL fans have been warned to remain vigilant while trying to secure tickets for this year’s Grand Finals.
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Cyber criminals are gearing up to prey on sports fans ahead of finals season, renewing calls for Australians to remain vigilant for scams.
More than $32m has been lost to buying and selling scams in 2023 alone, with fears mounting that the rush to buy AFL and NRL Grand Final tickets could push that figure even higher.
ANZ Complex Organisations Lead Marc Broome said scammers typically take advantage of the “sense of urgency” surrounding ticket sales for popular events, such as sporting finals.
“Sophisticated scammers adapt their tactics based on the event,” he said.
“What we can see is cyber criminals creating fake tickets, selling fake seats, duplicating tickets and even developing fake websites to lure in victims.”
The mayhem surrounding ticket sales of major events, such as Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, has been seen to push desperate fans to try obtain legitimate tickets in other ways.
This is particularly prevalent on social media websites as well as through unauthorised online sellers, where scammers “play on human nature” to steal funds and personal information from hopeful consumers.
As some of the biggest football clubs in both AFL and NRL codes will be competing in the grand finals this year, it is predicted that scammers will try to take advantage of fans looking to land last minute tickets.
While similar challenges were faced in last year’s football final season, fears are particularly high this year as consumers face the possibility of face offs between traditional rivals.
A higher demand in tickets only increases the risk to fans.
Mr Broome has urged Aussies to do their research before purchasing tickets in the coming weeks.
“If it seems too good to be true, it probably is,” he said.
“(If) the tickets are heavily discounted or cheaper than retail price (it’s likely a scam).
“Genuine resale tickets, particularly those in high demand often sell for double or triple the retail price.”
The industry expert has also warned buyers to check if the seller has a profile, sales history or reviews.
“Do your research and read reviews where possible,” he said.
“If buying tickets on social media, question if the seller has an existing profile or other listings.”
Lastly, Mr Broome emphasised the importance of paying through secure platforms.
“(Often) the seller will insist on payment through unfamiliar channels,” he said.
“And if you believe you have been the victim of a scam, report it to your bank immediately.”
The AFL and NRL Grand Final will fall on September 30 and October 1 respectively.
The AFL preliminary finals will be played on Friday between Collingwood and GWS Giants, and on Saturday with Carlton and Brisbane Lions.
In the NRL preliminary finals, the Panthers will square off with Storm on Friday while the Broncos will face the Warriors on Saturday.
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