Police Scotland message to anyone buying tickets for UK concerts

With Oasis set to come to Scotland, it’s worth remembering this

Police Scotland has some much-needed advice for anyone buying concert tickets in the UK – and it’s worth heeding, with major artists like Oasis and Harry Styles set to tour next year.

Because of this, fans are being warned to stay alert as ticket scams could catch people out without them realising until they’re at the venue. In a blog post, Police Scotland warns that concerts, festivals and sporting events are prime targets for scammers.

It explains that ticket fraud can occur when people buy from fake websites, touts, or social media. Fans are being urged never to purchase tickets via social media for this reason – no matter how much they want to see their favourite artist – as it could mean handing over money and receiving nothing in return.

Directing people to Cyber Fraud Centre, it explains “common tactics” include:

• Advertising on social media, messaging apps, email, text messages or fake websites.
• Using URLs that look similar to real vendor sites but are in fact fake copied sites.
• Claiming to be a “fan” or “friend” reselling spare tickets.
• Requesting payment via bank transfer or unconventional methods.
• Offering to have a “representative” meet in-person to deliver tickets.

Other precautions include:

• Never transfer money directly to an individual’s account via a bank transfer.
• If paying via Paypal, don’t be talked into using the ‘friends and family’ option, removing buyer protection and the option of a refund.
• If an option, use a credit card for extra purchase protection.
• Check website security features like https:// and site contact details for clues on website legitimacy.
• Be wary of offers for sold-out events at drastically reduced prices.
• Research unfamiliar resellers and check their online reviews.

I’ve bought tickets and I think it’s a scam

If you suspect you have been a victim of fraud, report it immediately to Police Scotland by calling 101 and contact your bank to prevent further unauthorised transactions.

If you arrive at the event and your tickets are rejected as fraudulent, do not attempt to use them, as it could cause further issues. Calmly explain the situation to venue staff and request that they document the issue and take possession of the fake tickets.

After this, the Cyber Fraud Centre suggest:

• Report any fraud to Police Scotland by calling 101.
• Gather all documentation like emails, messages sent, phone numbers, receipts, and fake tickets.
• Contact your bank and initiate a fraud claim for any losses if paid via bank or credit card.
• Report the scam website or seller to the appropriate hosting platforms.

When does Oasis come to Glasgow?

Oasis Live ‘27 will see the iconic band play 38 shows, with Scottish fans getting five nights in Glasgow. They will play in Celtic Park on May 21, 23, 25, 28 and 29.

If you can’t get tickets in Scotland, they will also play Manchester’s Etihad Stadium on June 4, 6, 8, 11, 12, 15, 18, 19, 22, 25 and 26. You can find out more about Oasis in Glasgow here.

Other major artists set to play in the UK include Harry Styles, with the singer set to play in London’s Wembley Stadium on August 25, 27 and 28 next year. Tickets for Harry Styles are now on sale.

Scam support

Police Scotland notes that you can get support from other organisations: