WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Ticketmaster has announced it has removed its “lead booker” policy from tickets to Taylor Swift's “Ellas Tour.” This means that people whose names are on the account are no longer required to participate in the event. Cybersecurity experts predict this could lead to a surge in fake online ticket sales.
“They said $1,200, but we negotiated for $1,100,” said Atul Kungal from Wellington. told WPTV.
In January, WPTV met Kungal and his wife Alka. After thinking they found a great deal on Facebook. Taylor Swift tickets at Hard Rock Stadium.
In the end, the offer turned out to be fake. Kungar lost money but still doesn't have a ticket.
“What was amazing was that we realized there were so many red flags and emotions were getting the better of us,” Alka Kungal said.
This week, Ticketmaster announced it had removed its “lead booker” policy for tickets to the “Ellas Tour.” This means that people whose names are on the account are no longer required to participate in the event.
InfoStream cybersecurity expert Alan Krowetz spoke Friday about how that could lead to an increase in fake online sales.
“It's like a magnet, it's like a moth to a flame. The bad guys will avoid these situations,” Krowetz said. “There's going to be a lot of very sophisticated cyber fraudsters because the demand for tickets is so high.”
Krowetz warns consumers to be wary of sellers who use urgency or pressure tactics, questionable payment methods such as Cash App, and prices well below market value.
“So take your time when shopping,” Krowetz says. “Ask yourself: 'Is this a legitimate site? Can I Google this site?' Find out more about this. 'Are there any reviews? Is this the legitimate and correct way to do it? Do you have any proof that this is the case?”