Experts have warned that Brits could be swindled out of £100million in ticket scams this summer alone, if price caps are introduced on ticket resales. Data from the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, Action Fraud and the National Crime Agency revealed that ticket fraud across England and Wales cost £70million in 2024. This year, the figure could skyrocket to £280million, with anticipation building around Glastonbury, Wimbledon, and the eagerly awaited Oasis tour.
Over a third of scams, equating to £100million, are predicted to occur in the coming months if price caps are implemented. The data is courtesy of Bradshaw Advisory and independent research from anti-fraud organisation We Fight Fraud. They suggest that scams could quadruple if price caps are introduced. The experts warn that the UK Government’s proposal to cap resale prices could inadvertently aid scammers, making it easier for fraud to thrive as desperate fans resort to riskier methods to secure tickets.
Dave Eborne, head of fraud operations at Revolut, said: « We know that highly anticipated events, like concerts and sports matches, can become a target for unscrupulous criminals preying on enthusiastic fans. »
He says this is especially true with sought-after tickets, »fraudsters leverage both the fear of missing out on a unique opportunity and a sense of urgency due to scarcity and high demand. »
« The idea that a potential ticket could disappear quickly encourages people to act fast without thinking – but it’s vital that consumers look for tell-tale warning signs before handing over their hard-earned cash, » he added.
The study refers to data from Ireland and Victoria, Australia – two regions that have implemented caps and witnessed a significant rise in ticket fraud reports. « As We Fight Fraud’s research shows, banning or capping resale doesn’t stop these scams; it simply provides another platform for them to thrive, costing fans and the wider economy through increased fraud. »
The Bradshaw Advisory noted that in Ireland, where price caps are in place, 13.6% of fans reported being scammed – more than triple the UK’s rate of 3.8%. Moreover, there could be broader implications as, since October 2024, UK banks have been obligated to reimburse victims of Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud, which encompasses most ticket scams.
Dr Nicola Harding, from We Fight Fraud, said: « Price caps don’t stop fraud – they multiply it and we could see live event fans defrauded to the tune of £100 million this summer.
« Smart, transparent regulation of the resale market, and robust consumer education on the warning signs of ticket scams, are the only real solutions to protect fans. »
