Taylor Swift fans targeted by ticket scams ahead of UK tour

Two Taylor Swift fanatics have spoken out regarding their experience of losing money after being targeted by ticket tricksters.

As excitement builds for Taylor Swift’s upcoming UK tour, known as the Eras tour, fans have been targeted by ticket scams, resulting in significant financial losses. A report by Lloyds Bank revealed that Swifties have collectively lost an estimated £1 million to these scams.

Victims Share Their Experiences

Two fans, Gemma Moore from Rubery and Amanda Beasley from Stourbridge, shared their unfortunate experiences with BBC Radio WM. 

Gemma recounted how she lost £800 after attempting to purchase tickets from a seller on Facebook, believing them to be a friend of a friend. Despite conducting research and verifying the seller’s account, Gemma realized too late that it had been hacked by scammers.

Amanda had a similar encounter, losing £400 while trying to secure tickets for her daughter’s 21st birthday. Despite conducting research and using PayPal for the transaction, Amanda received a scripted response from the seller, revealing the fraudulent nature of the transaction.

Heartbreak and Disappointment

Both Gemma and Amanda expressed their dismay over falling victim to the scams, particularly because the tickets were intended as special gifts for their daughters’ milestone birthdays. 

Gemma lamented the loss of £800, meant to be a treat for her daughter’s 18th birthday, while Amanda was heartbroken over her daughter missing out on the opportunity to see her idol, Taylor Swift, perform live.

The emotional toll of the scams was evident as Amanda shared her regret in informing her daughter about the tickets, knowing that she would now be disappointed. The incidents serve as cautionary tales for fans to remain vigilant and cautious when purchasing tickets, especially through unofficial channels or unfamiliar sellers.

As Swifties eagerly anticipate the UK leg of Taylor Swift’s Eras tour, authorities urge fans to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of ticket sellers to avoid falling victim to scams.