Taylor Swift UK Fans targeted in $1 Million ‘Eras Tour’ ticket scam

Taylor Swift fans in the UK have been scammed out of an estimated $1.25 million.

The Lloyds Bank reported earlier this week that over 600 people have been tricked into buying fake tickets for Taylor Swift gigs, with some fans losing more than $1000 each.

The majority of these scams take place on Facebook Marketplace, where unofficial groups offer fraudulent tickets for the sold-out Eras Tour. As concert dates approach, experts fear the number of victims will increase significantly.

The bank warns that scams will increase as the concert dates approach:

“With all UK dates now sold out, many more fans are likely to fall victim to ticket scams in the coming weeks and months, both leading up to the tour and once the concerts begin in June.”

With her double album release with “The Tortured Poets Department” and “TTPDTheAnthology”, fans are more in a frenzy now for the “Eras Tour” tickets. The European leg of the tour will kick off on May 9th. 

How to avoid Taylor Swift ticket scams

Music fans need to be vigilant to avoid falling victim to ticket scams. Here's how to protect yourself:

Don't share bank details:

Never give out your bank account number. Pay only with a credit or debit card for added protection.

Stick to official sources: 

Purchase tickets directly from authori\sed promoters like Live Nation or official resellers like Ticketmaster. In the UK, look for retailers with the STAR logo, signifying membership in the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers.

Liz Ziegler, director of fraud prevention at Lloyds Bank, offers this crucial advice for Taylor Swift fans:

“Cruel fraudsters have wasted no time in targeting her most loyal fans as they rush to pick up tickets for her must-see concerts. 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 those feelings cloud our judgement when trying to get hold of tickets. Buying directly from reputable, authorised platforms is the only way to guarantee you're paying for a genuine 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.”