Concert-goers need to be on their guard when purchasing tickets according to Lloyds Bank, which has seen a major increase in scammers over the past year. 

Data from Lloyds Bank has revealed reports of people being scammed when buying concert tickets have surged by 529% over the past year, with victims losing £110 on average.

Scammers have been targeting festival-goers as well. 

Scams reported by those trying to buy music festival tickets have also more than doubled, increasing by 128% in the past 12 months.

Who is being targeted?

Lloyds said, based on the reports they have received, scammers are largely targeting people buying tickets to see big-name artists. 

Some of the artist's concerts scammers have targeted include Harry Styles, Lewis Capaldi, Coldplay and Calvin Harris. 

Along with various festivals across the UK.

The Northern Echo: Scammers are targeting people looking to by tickets to see artists like Harry Styles and Lewis Capaldi.Scammers are targeting people looking to by tickets to see artists like Harry Styles and Lewis Capaldi. (Image: PA)

How to spot a scam?

Scams happen when someone is tricked into sending money via bank transfer to buy goods or services that do not exist.

Lloyds Banks said ticket scams usually involve fake websites, social media posts or emails offering tickets at discounted prices, or access to events that have already sold out.

Victims are asked to pay upfront for the tickets, but once the payment is made, the scammers disappear.

This leaves the buyer without the tickets and out of pocket.

Lloyds Bank's fraud prevention director, Liz Ziegler, said: “Fraudsters are always changing their tactics to trick victims out of their hard-earned cash.

"With demand to attend live events soaring as the warmer weather approaches, they’ll waste no time in targeting music fans as they rush to pick up tickets for the most popular gigs and festivals.

“It’s easy to let our emotions get the better of us when we find out our favourite artist is going to be performing live, but it’s important not to let that excitement cloud our judgement when trying to get hold of tickets.

The Northern Echo: Scammers can leave music lovers without tickets and out of pocket.Scammers can leave music lovers without tickets and out of pocket. (Image: PA)

“Buying directly from reputable, authorised platforms is the only way to guarantee you’re paying for a real ticket. Even then, always pay by debit or credit card for the greatest protection.

“If you’re being asked to pay by bank transfer, particularly from a seller you’ve found on social media, that should immediately set alarm bells ringing.”

How to avoid concert ticket scams?

Lloyds Bank shared their tips to help music lovers stay safe and avoid scammers when buying concert or festival tickets:

  • Think about how you pay.

Lloyds Banks said: "Bank transfers can be the electronic equivalent of handing over your cash to someone in the street."

Paying by card can give people added protection if something goes wrong.

People who pay by credit or debit card can benefit from chargeback rules, which could help them to get their money back in the event of a scam.

Paying by PayPal can also give people added protection.

  • Bear in mind that fraudsters will target any major event where demand for tickets is likely to exceed supply.

Lloyds Banks said: "Watch out for “too good to be true” offers. Tickets for sale at low prices or for sold-out events should ring alarm bells. Ask yourself if the deal seems realistic."

  • Only buy tickets from trusted retailers. 
  • Be cautious on social media.

Lloyds bank said: "It is easy for fraudsters to create fake ads including pictures of real tickets."