Annie
3rd Jul 2024
Reading Time: 4 minutes
Have you fallen victim to a scam event? In today’s world, scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Whether you’re a fan looking for concert tickets, planning a vacation, or aiming to attend a major event like the Olympics – caution is key! A recent survey discovered that one in ten Brits has been scammed when purchasing tickets for events they eagerly anticipated.
The Survey Findings on Scams
A survey conducted by security awareness firm KnowBe4 revealed that 11% of respondents had been targeted by scams, with an additional 8% suspecting they might have been. Of those targeted, 36% reported financial losses, while 40% reported the incidents to authorities.
Of particular concern is that 30% of victims also had their personal online data, including financial information, compromised. Additionally, 31% lost access to their online accounts, leaving them vulnerable to fraudulent activities using linked credit cards to make unauthorized purchases.
How to Avoid Falling Victim to Scams
There are several measures you can take to protect your money and data from deceitful individuals when making your next ticket purchase.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Opt for Two-Factor Authentication whenever available for account logins. This security feature requires a unique code sent to your phone or email to confirm your identity during login or transactions. While not foolproof, Two-Factor Authentication significantly increases the difficulty for hackers and alerts you to any account activity.
Use Unique Passwords
Avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts, as this makes it easier for scammers to access your information and make unauthorized transactions. Generate and store secure, unique passwords for each account to enhance your online security.
Check If Your Password Has Been Compromised
Use the free tool HaveIBeenPwned.com to determine if your password linked to your email address has been leaked in any data breaches. If so, change your password immediately to safeguard your online accounts.
Verify URLs Before Clicking
Beware of enticing offers for tickets through emails or social media posts. Before clicking any links, hover over them to preview the destination URL. To ensure safety, avoid clicking on social media or email links and instead visit the retailer’s website directly.
Avoid Cash Transactions for Tickets
Exercise caution when purchasing tickets for cash from unofficial sources, as many tickets are non-transferable except through authorized resellers. Counterfeit tickets with duplicated QR codes are common, leading to multiple individuals unknowingly holding the same ticket.
For more detailed information on safeguarding yourself online and avoiding common ticket scams, refer to our comprehensive article on the topic.
Steps to Take If Scammed
If you’ve fallen prey to a scam, follow these steps:
- Contact your bank to report the incident and inquire about potential refunds, especially if payment was made via credit card. They can also assist in canceling compromised cards and enhancing your account security.
- Inform the retailer about the scam to aid them in taking legal action against the scammers. They may offer alternative ticket purchasing options or compensation.
- Report the incident to Action Fraud for further investigation.
- If significant funds were stolen, consider filing a police report, particularly if fraud occurred in person, such as through a ticket tout.
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