Alert: Beware of Ticket Scams for Taylor Swift’s California Concerts, Warns Attorney General Bonta | Don’t Fall Victim – State of California DOJ
As summer approaches, music lovers across California are gearing up for concerts and live events featuring the biggest names in the industry. One such artist generating a buzz is Taylor Swift, whose upcoming tour stops in the state have fans eagerly anticipating an unforgettable experience. However, amidst the excitement, there is a looming threat that concert-goers need to be wary of: ticket scams and fraudulent activities.
In an effort to protect consumers from falling victim to counterfeit tickets and scammers, California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a consumer alert. Ticket scams have been on the rise, with the Better Business Bureau receiving over 16,000 complaints related to ticket sales in the past year alone. Attorney General Bonta’s alert serves as a timely reminder for Californians to stay vigilant and informed when purchasing tickets online.
“Too often, bad actors take advantage of highly sought-after concert tickets and strip fans of their hard-earned money,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Whether you’re attending a Taylor Swift concert or another event, it’s crucial to stay informed and protect yourself from falling victim to ticket scams. If you suspect fraudulent activity, don’t hesitate to report it to the necessary authorities.”
So, how can you protect yourself from ticket scams and ensure a smooth concert experience? Here are some tips provided by Attorney General Bonta:
- Purchase tickets from authorized vendors: Always buy tickets from the official website or box office to verify authenticity.
- Know the refund policy: Check the reseller’s refund policy before purchasing third-party tickets.
- Protect your personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive details like social security or bank account number.
- Verify web address safety: Ensure the website URL begins with “https://” and has a padlock icon for secure transactions.
- Do your research: Look for reviews on the seller and any potential complaints to avoid scams.
- Use secure payment methods: Opt for credit cards over instant payment platforms to dispute fraudulent charges.
- Be wary of discounted tickets: Exercise caution with overly cheap or hard-to-get tickets as they may be scam.
If you have already been a victim of a ticket scam, it’s important to take action and report the incident. You can file a complaint with the California Department of Justice at oag.ca.gov/report or report to the Better Business Bureau and the FBI’s Internet Complaint Center.
Attorney General Bonta is dedicated to protecting California consumers and ensuring a fair marketplace. In a recent move, he sponsored Senate Bill 478, a landmark legislation aimed at prohibiting the practice of hiding mandatory fees or junk fees. These hidden fees have been a common deceptive tactic in various industries, including ticket sales for live events. The proposed legislation seeks to complement existing false advertising laws and hold accountable those who engage in deceptive practices against consumers.
As music fans gear up for an exciting summer of concerts and events, it’s essential to stay informed and vigilant against ticket scams. By following the tips provided and reporting any suspicious activity, consumers can protect themselves and ensure a memorable and hassle-free concert experience. Let’s make sure that the only surprises at the concert are the ones coming from the stage, not from scammers!
