Fans Warned as £2.5m Lost to Football Ticket Scams

Football supporters are being warned to stay vigilant against online ticket fraud after new figures revealed an estimated £2.5m has been stolen by scammers over the past two seasons, Sport360NG reports.

Lloyds Bank says at least 12,000 fans have fallen victim since 2023, with its own customers losing around £500,000. When scaled up across the UK, the total loss is believed to exceed £2.5m.

The Stop! Think Fraud campaign has been launched to highlight how criminals exploit demand for sold-out matches, often advertising tickets at “too good to be true” prices on social media.

“Fraud is a ruthless crime that preys on our passions, trust, and excitement,” said Fraud Minister Lord Hanson. “Over three-quarters of scams last season began on social platforms, posing as genuine ‘first come, first served’ offers to exploit desperate fans.”

Hanson urged supporters to buy only from clubs, official partners, or recognised resale outlets.

Liverpool fans were the most common targets, followed by supporters of Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea. Those aged 25–34 accounted for the largest share of victims (28%), with the 18–24 age group close behind at 26%.

From the 2026–27 season, Premier League clubs will be required to make 70% of their tickets digital in a bid to curb touting and fraud.