Soccer fans warned about World Cup 2010 ticket scams
Posted by editor (editor) on Dec 10 2009
2009 >>

With the final match program now decided for FIFA World Cup 2010 [4 Dec], the Office of Fair Trading is warning Queensland soccer fans buying tickets to watch out for fake sellers.

Fair Trading Minister Peter Lawlor said people should buy their tickets for the international soccer tournament, to be held in South Africa, from official outlets to avoid falling for ticket scams and getting ripped off.

“Big events like the World Cup often bring online ticket fraudsters out of the woodwork,” Mr Lawlor said.

“Many get tricked into buying tickets that are fake or don’t exist, leaving people empty handed and out of pocket.

“Last year Queenslanders were among the many people worldwide duped by a Beijing Olympics ticketing scam through a website that appeared to be genuine.

“Fans can make sure they are getting legitimate tickets by buying through FIFA’s official website, www.fifa.com, or licensed tour operators authorised to sell tickets in travel packages.

“Heading overseas for this sporting event is very exciting for soccer enthusiasts. It’s not a cheap holiday though, so it’s worth doing right.

“Those who have been ripped off have little chance of getting their money back because the scammer usually does a disappearing act after the deal’s done.”

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission recently did an internet sweep in which it identified an unauthorised site selling World Cup tickets.

"I urge consumers buying tickets for either Queensland or international events to do so through proper vendors and check the conditions of sale before handing over hard-earned cash."

Last changed: Dec 10 2009 at 11:09 AM