Police are urging football fans to be vigilant in buying tickets for the Carabao Cup final online, from unofficial sources.
Tickets for the eagerly-anticipated final between Newcastle United and Manchester United, at Wembley Stadium, on Sunday, February 26, have gone on sale to supporters of both clubs this week.
But Northumbria Police said it has received reports of fake tickets being sold on social media and online.
It appears that shady sellers are attempting to take advantage of the scramble for prized tickets, with both well-supported clubs having received official allocations of less than 33,000 for the final.
Read more: Newcastle confirm Carabao Cup allocation and how fans can buy tickets
Since Saturday, when the first batch of tickets were released to Newcastle fans, police have been made aware of reports made to Action Fraud, alleging fraudsters have been attempting to make bogus sales online.
Inquiries are said to be ongoing into the reports, and the force today warned fans to exercise caution when buying tickets via non-official channels.
Detective Inspector Phil Thoburn, of Northumbria Police, said: “We are aware that some football fans have already fallen victim to scams on social media and websites, with fraudsters encouraging payment upfront with a promise that tickets will be provided ahead of the game by post or in person.
“Sadly, many of these tickets have not materialised and a number of reports have been subsequently made to Action Fraud.
“Let me be clear, these people are despicable and are preying on those who are looking forward to enjoying the big game and trying every avenue to secure tickets."
Read more: Newcastle: Wembley ticket rush & other Southampton talking points
He urged fans desperate to get seats for Wembley against paying strangers for tickets.
“It is highly likely to be a scam and we urge fans to be vigilant and not to part with money to these fake sellers.
“Please buy from official ticket selling outlets, where possible.
"If you are in any doubt, please walk away and report it.”
Should anyone think they might have been a victim of fraud, they are advised to contact Action Fraud immediately, by calling (0300) 123 2040, between Monday and Friday, from 8am to 8pm.
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Callers from abroad are advised to ring +44 300 123 2040.
Reports can also be made online at https://reporting.actionfraud.police.uk, while information about such incidents can be passed on via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page, on the Northumbria Police website.
Newcastle United fans are asked to visit www.nufc.co.uk for full information on the club’s Carabao Cup final ticket sales.
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