Facebook Marketplace Dominates Concert Ticket Scams, with Oasis Fans Most Targeted, Lloyds Bank Warns
Fake tickets displayed on mobile screens
Social media platforms facilitate 90% of ticket scams, with Facebook Marketplace being the primary source, according to a new Lloyds Bank report. The study reveals that Oasis Live '25 tickets account for 70% of all reported concert ticket scams since August 27, with victims losing an average of £346 ($450).
Adults aged 35-44 are the most targeted demographic, representing 31% of fraud reports. Scammers particularly focus on high-profile shows like Oasis, Taylor Swift, and Adele residency events, where legitimate tickets already command premium prices.
How to Avoid Ticket Scams:
- Purchase only from authorized sellers:
- Venue box office
- Ticketmaster
- Official authorized resellers
- Watch for red flags:
- Suspiciously low prices
- Requests for bank transfers
- Urgency in completing the sale
- Sold-out event "deals"
- Use secure payment methods:
- Credit cards (preferred)
- Debit cards
- Never use bank transfers, wire transfers, or money transfer services
Scammers typically post fake tickets in two waves: during initial ticket release and close to the event date. Facebook Marketplace explicitly prohibits ticket selling, yet fraudulent listings continue to appear, highlighting the need for stronger platform enforcement.
Remember: If a ticket deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify the seller's legitimacy and use secure payment methods that offer buyer protection.