The Most Common Concert Ticket Frauds on OfferUp to Avoid in 2026

Common Concert Ticket Frauds on OfferUp

OfferUp can be a marketplace for finding concert tickets, but it's also a hunting ground for scammers. Be aware of the following common fraudulent tactics used to trick unsuspecting buyers into losing their money or personal information.

The 'Text Me' Phone Number Phish

Sellers may encourage you to move the conversation off the OfferUp platform by asking for your phone number to text you details or arrange the sale. This is often a tactic to lure you into a more private communication channel where they can more easily attempt to phish for personal information or direct you to fraudulent payment links. Always keep communication within the OfferUp app to maintain a record and leverage platform protections.

Fake Payment App Screenshot / Shipping Label Outside App

Be wary of sellers who request payment through external apps or provide shipping labels outside of OfferUp's system. They might send a fake payment app screenshot to confirm a non-existent transaction or provide a shipping label that leads to a fraudulent website. Always use OfferUp's integrated payment system for secure transactions. If shipping is involved, ensure it's handled through the platform's verified methods.

Non-Existent Item Deposit / Fake TruYou Identity Theft

Scammers may request a deposit for tickets they don't actually possess, promising to send them after payment. They might also try to obtain your personal information under the guise of identity verification, potentially leading to fake TruYou profiles or identity theft. OfferUp's TruYou verification is for the seller's identity, not for buyers to 'verify' tickets.

Overpayment via Cashier's Check / Empty Box Shipping Fraud

While less common for tickets than physical goods, be cautious if a seller suggests an overpayment scam, especially if they claim to be sending tickets digitally. This often involves a fake cashier's check and a request to refund the difference, leaving you out the original payment and the 'refunded' amount. Similarly, 'empty box shipping fraud' is where a scammer sends an empty package to create a false sense of transaction completion.

Robbery at Unsafe Meetup

While meeting in person for ticket exchanges can sometimes be an option, agreeing to meet in an unsafe or isolated location poses a significant risk of robbery or assault. Always opt for public, well-lit places, preferably with security presence, and consider using OfferUp's secure payment and delivery options instead of in-person exchanges.

• ✓ Never share verification codes sent to your phone; these are often used to hijack accounts.
• ✓ Avoid clicking on external links sent by sellers, as they can lead to phishing sites.
• ✓ Always use OfferUp's secure payment system for all transactions.
• ✓ If buying tickets for a high-demand event, be extra vigilant as these are prime targets for scammers.
• ✓ Consider using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for high-value ticket purchases to add an extra layer of security and verification.

Secure Your Ticket Purchases with Safe Trade Services

For significant concert ticket purchases, consider utilizing Safe Trade Services. Our Premium Plan offers robust identity verification for both buyer and seller, adding a crucial layer of trust and security to your P2P transactions. Ensure your ticket buying experience is as secure as the event is exciting.