Ticket scams
Ticketing scams occur when fraudsters advertise tickets for concerts, sporting events, festivals or other popular events that either do not exist or are never delivered after payment. Scammers often create a sense of urgency by claiming tickets are limited, selling out fast, or offering them at a discounted price.
Warning signs
- Tickets are being sold through unofficial websites or social media accounts.
- The seller requests payment by bank transfer or other non-refundable payment methods.
- Prices seem unusually low or significantly below market value.
- The seller refuses to meet in person or provide proof of purchase.
- The event is highly sought-after and tickets appear readily available on their website or social media account.
How to Protect Yourself
- Take a moment to pause; “Looks real? Look again.”
- Purchase tickets only from official vendors or authorised resellers.
- Verify the legitimacy of the seller before making a payment.
- Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
- Check the event organiser's website for approved ticketing partners.
- Avoid making payments through insecure or untraceable methods
If You’ve Been Scammed
- Stop all communication with the seller.
- Contact PTSB Fraud Department immediately on 01 669 5851.
- Report the fraud to the relevant authorities.
- Keep records of all communications and payment details.
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Investment scams
Investment scams promise high returns with little or no risk. Fraudsters may pose as investment professionals, brokers or financial experts and encourage victims to invest in shares, cryptocurrency, property schemes or other opportunities.
Once funds are transferred, the investment may not exist, or victims may be prevented from withdrawing their money.
Warning signs
- Promises of guaranteed returns or unusually high profits.
- Pressure to invest quickly to avoid missing an opportunity.
- Unsolicited calls, emails or messages promoting investments.
- Requests to keep the opportunity confidential.
- Difficulty accessing or withdrawing invested funds.
How to Protect Yourself
- Research any investment opportunity thoroughly.
- Always check the register of authorised firms on The Central Bank webpage
- In some instances, the details of an authorised firm are cloned and criminals purport to be either that entity or an associated entity.
- Be wary of unexpected investment offers.
- Seek independent financial advice before investing.
- Never make decisions based on pressure or urgency.
If You’ve Been Scammed
- Stop sending money immediately.
- Contact PTSB Fraud Department immediately on 01 669 5851.
- Report the scam to the relevant regulatory and law enforcement authorities.
- Be cautious of recovery scams that claim they can retrieve lost funds for an upfront fee.
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