7 Warning Signs for Super Bowl LXI Tickets Scams on Facebook Marketplace

7 Warning Signs for Super Bowl LXI Tickets Scams on Facebook Marketplace

The allure of scoring Super Bowl LXI tickets on Facebook Marketplace can be strong, but so are the tactics used by scammers. Understanding the prevalent scams targeting ticket sales is crucial for a safe transaction. Here are seven critical red flags to watch out for.

1. Overpayment Scams via Payment Apps

Be wary of sellers requesting payment through Zelle or Venmo, especially if they claim to have accidentally overpaid you and ask for the difference back. This is a classic scam where the initial payment may be reversed or fraudulent, leaving you out both the ticket cost and the 'refunded' amount.

2. The 'Google Voice' OTP Verification

A seller insisting on using a 'Google Voice' number for One-Time Passwords (OTPs) to 'verify' the transaction is a significant red flag. They often use this to gain access to your accounts or SIM swap your phone number, leading to identity theft and financial loss.

3. Fake Payment Screenshots

Scammers will frequently provide fake screenshots of payment confirmations for Zelle, Venmo, or other payment apps. Always independently verify that funds have cleared into your account before handing over the tickets or any personal information. Never rely solely on a screenshot provided by the seller.

4. Unsolicited Shipping Labels

While less common for digital tickets, if a seller offers to send a pre-paid shipping label for physical tickets and then claims it's 'invalid' or requires additional 'fees,' it could be a ploy to scam you out of money or collect your personal shipping details for nefarious purposes.

5. The 'I'm Sending My Brother/Friend' Lure

If a seller claims they are unable to complete the transaction themselves and are sending a family member or friend, this is often a tactic to create distance and plausible deniability. It's a way for them to avoid direct accountability if the tickets are fake or don't arrive.

6. Urgency and Pressure Tactics

Scammers often create a false sense of urgency, pressuring you to make a quick decision or payment before you have time to think or verify. They might claim other buyers are lined up or that the price will increase, forcing you into a hasty decision that bypasses your usual security checks.

7. Vague or Inconsistent Information

Be cautious if the seller provides vague details about the tickets, such as section or row numbers, or if their stories about why they are selling are inconsistent. Legitimate sellers are usually happy to provide specific details and clear reasons for their sale.

Enhance Your Security with Safe Trade Services

For high-value transactions like Super Bowl LXI tickets, we strongly recommend utilizing Safe Trade Services for secure P2P transactions. Consider our Premium Plan for tickets valued over $500, offering robust identity verification and secure payment processing to protect both buyers and sellers.