Football supporters are being warned about a sharp increase in ticket fraud, with new data showing victims losing an average of £215, as criminals gear up to exploit the upcoming World Cup. Lloyds Bank analysis reveals a 36 per cent surge in football ticket scams during the current Premier League season, based on fraud cases from October 2025 to March 2026 compared to the previous year.
Fraudsters are specifically targeting fans of top clubs such as Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United, as well as high-demand events like the FA Cup and Champions League Finals. While the average loss is £215, some victims have been defrauded of hundreds or even thousands of pounds for fake 'season tickets' or VIP packages.
Many scams originate on social media, where criminals advertise non-existent tickets, pressuring victims into irreversible bank transfers. Tactics include fake waiting lists, counterfeit QR codes, and bogus 'pre-release' offers. With World Cup tickets costing more and involving international travel, potential losses could be devastating.
In response, the Government and Lloyds have launched the 'Stop! Think Fraud' campaign, led by the Home Office. Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director at Lloyds, said: 'Fraudsters thrive on urgency and target fans looking for hard-to-get tickets for big name fixtures. It’s incredibly convincing, and we don’t want fans to lose their money trying to support their team.'
Lord Hanson, minister for fraud, urged supporters to 'Stop! Think Fraud and show fraudsters the red card', adding: 'Missing out on a big match is disappointing, but becoming a victim to a scam makes it even harder to bear.'
