Consumer experts are warning football fans to take care when buying World Cup tickets and booking travel, as fraudsters ramp up scams ahead of the 2026 tournament. Fans hoping to see the FIFA World Cup 2026 live are being warned they could be at serious risk of being scammed — with some victims losing hundreds, and in some cases more than £1,000.
Scams Targeting Urgent Fans
Experts say the combination of limited ticket availability and huge demand has created the perfect conditions for frauds. Warnings from Action Fraud show criminals deliberately target major events where people feel under pressure to act quickly.
Ticket fraud has surged around major football events, with victims often tricked by listings that appear genuine. Scammers typically use professional-looking websites, social media posts offering 'last-minute' tickets, fake confirmation emails, and duplicate digital tickets that fail at the stadium.
Marc Crosby, scams expert at MoneyMagpie, said: 'These scams are designed to look completely legitimate. By the time most people realise something is wrong, the money has already gone. The biggest risk is urgency — scammers know fans are worried about missing out, so they push for quick decisions before people have time to properly check.'
Beyond Tickets: Travel and Accommodation Risks
It is not just match tickets that pose a risk. With matches taking place across the United States, Canada and Mexico, travelling fans are also being targeted with fake accommodation listings, bogus transport deals, unofficial ticket sellers near stadiums, and inflated taxi or transfer scams.
Marc Crosby added: 'Travelling makes people even more vulnerable. You're in an unfamiliar place, often tired or rushed, and that's exactly when scammers take advantage.'
How to Avoid Being Scammed
Experts say the safest approach is to slow down and stick to trusted providers. Only buy tickets through official channels or authorised resale platforms. Double-check website addresses carefully. Avoid paying by bank transfer or cryptocurrency. Be wary of deals that seem significantly cheaper than others.
Liz Hunter, commercial director at MoneyExpert, said: 'If purchasing online, always pay by credit card as this offers important protection under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, which covers purchases between £100 and £30,000. This means that if tickets are not delivered, are invalid, or a seller fails to fulfil the transaction, consumers are able to claim their money back from the credit provider.'
Marc Crosby added: 'A credit card gives you a vital safety net. It won't stop the scam, but it can stop you losing the money.'
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
Anyone who believes they have been targeted should contact their bank immediately, report the incident to Action Fraud, and keep records of all communications and payments. Acting quickly can improve the chances of recovering lost money.
The Bottom Line
The World Cup should be about the football — but for some fans it risks becoming an expensive mistake. As Marc Crosby puts it: 'If something feels rushed, pressured or too good to be true, that's your warning sign. Take a step back — it could save you hundreds.'
