As an enthusiastic supporter of Liverpool, the upcoming football season brings anticipation to witness if Arne Slot’s team can secure consecutive titles after more than four decades and surpass Manchester United in the historical rankings.
Each fan enters the new season with their personal aspirations, and for followers of the Women’s Super League, it represents an opportunity to celebrate the Lionesses’ back-to-back success in the Euros.
Football enthusiasts nationwide are expected to eagerly seek tickets for the season’s kickoff, yearning for electrifying moments akin to those experienced in the previous year.
However, amidst the excitement, it is crucial for football fans to remain vigilant against potential fraud risks. Recent data reveals that fraudulent activities have cost hard-working supporters an estimated £2.5 million over the last two years, with more than 12,000 individuals falling victim while attempting to acquire tickets.
The emotional and psychological impact of such scams can be profound, as fans transition from the excitement of attending a major match to the devastation of realizing they have been deceived.
Scammers are actively targeting football fans across the nation, with supporters of Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Manchester City identified as high-risk groups for fraudulent activities.
Incidents of fraud are not limited to England, as evidence indicates Celtic and Rangers fans in Scotland and Wrexham supporters in Wales have also been victimized, likely due to their ascent to the second tier.
Young adults aged 25 to 34 are particularly vulnerable to ticket scams, with more than three-quarters of fraudulent activities occurring on social media platforms. There is a pressing need for technology companies to enhance their efforts in safeguarding the public from fraud.
The upcoming Online Safety Act will play a crucial role in combatting fraudulent content online, but collaborative efforts involving industry stakeholders, law enforcement, financial institutions, and consumer organizations are essential to effectively address this issue and protect individuals from financial harm.
A comprehensive Fraud Strategy set to be introduced later this year will prioritize public awareness to safeguard individuals’ finances as part of the Government’s Plan for Change. Ahead of the new season, it is imperative for those seeking football tickets to adhere to three key principles: Stop, Think, Fraud.
It is recommended to purchase tickets solely from official club websites, ticket offices, or authorized partners. Avoid falling for enticing offers on social media and always opt for secure payment methods while refraining from transferring funds to unfamiliar entities.
In the words of the esteemed Bill Shankly, football holds a special place in the UK as our national sport. While embracing the fervor surrounding the game, it is vital for everyone to remain vigilant against potential scams. Let us unite to eliminate fraud from football.
