How do I know if my e tickets are real?

Answered by Frank Schwing

If you are concerned about the authenticity of your e-tickets, there are several steps you can take to verify their legitimacy. Here is a detailed guide on how to determine if your e-tickets are real:

1. Purchase from reputable sources: To minimize the risk of buying fake tickets, it is essential to use trusted and authorized ticket sellers. Stick to well-known ticketing platforms, official box offices, or authorized resellers.

2. Check the website’s security: Before making any online purchase, ensure that the website is secure. Look for “https” in the URL, indicating a secure connection, and check for a padlock icon in the browser address bar. These indicators signify that the website is encrypted and can help protect your personal and payment information.

3. Verify the ticket seller: If you are buying from a third-party seller, do some research to determine their reputation. Read reviews, check their rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and look for any customer complaints or scam reports. Be cautious when purchasing from unknown individuals or unofficial online marketplaces.

4. Confirm the event details: Double-check the event information, including the date, time, venue, and seating section. Compare this information with the official event website or the box office’s details. Discrepancies or inconsistencies may indicate fraudulent tickets.

5. Validate the ticket barcode or QR code: Most e-tickets contain a barcode or QR code that can be scanned for entry. Before attending the event, use a reputable barcode scanning app or the ticketing platform’s official app to scan the code. If the app recognizes the code and provides accurate ticket information, it is likely genuine. However, if the scanner shows an error or the ticket details do not match, it may be a fake ticket.

6. Contact the box office: If you have any doubts about the authenticity of your e-tickets, reach out to the official box office or event organizer. Provide them with the ticket details and ask them to verify if the tickets are legitimate. They can cross-reference the ticket information in their system and confirm their validity.

7. Beware of unusually low prices: If the ticket prices seem too good to be true, exercise caution. Fraudsters often lure unsuspecting buyers with significantly discounted tickets to entice them into purchasing fake or non-existent tickets. Research the average ticket prices for the event to ensure you are not falling victim to a scam.

8. Trust your instincts: If something feels off about the ticket purchase or the seller, trust your gut. If the seller is reluctant to provide additional information or seems evasive, it may be a red flag. Always prioritize your safety and security when purchasing tickets.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of purchasing genuine e-tickets. Remember, it is crucial to be proactive and check the tickets as soon as you receive them to allow time for resolution if any issues arise.