The Dangers of Ticket Scalping

Imagine this: you've been eagerly waiting for your favorite artists’ performance at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. The tickets are sold at 10 a.m., and you're ready to click "Buy." But within minutes, the tickets are sold out, and you're left staring at the screen in disbelief. Shortly after, you notice the same tickets sold online at double or even triple the original price. This frustrating scenario results from ticket scalping—a practice plaguing fans and events alike. 
 

In this blog, we'll explain ticket scalping, how it works, its disadvantages, and how you can avoid falling victim to it.

What Is Ticket Scalping?


Ticket scalping, also known as ticket reselling, is the practice of buying event tickets and reselling them at a higher price. Scalpers exploit the high demand for popular events, purchasing large quantities of tickets as soon as they become available. They then resell these tickets to desperate fans at inflated prices, often through secondary markets or social media platforms. While ticket reselling may not always be illegal, it often leads to unfair practices that disadvantage genuine fans.

How Does Ticket Scalping Work?

Scalpers use a variety of methods to acquire tickets, often leveraging technology to gain an edge over regular buyers. Many scalpers use bots—automated software—to purchase large quantities of tickets the moment they go on sale. These bots can bypass CAPTCHA systems and outpace human buyers. Other scalpers rely on inside connections or buy tickets in bulk during pre-sales. Once they have the tickets, scalpers list them on resale websites, social media, or auction platforms at significantly marked-up prices. This deprives genuine fans of the chance to buy tickets at face value.

What Are the Disadvantages of Ticket Scalping?

Inflated Prices

One of the biggest downsides of ticket scalping is the exorbitant prices fans have to pay. Scalpers often mark up tickets by 100% or more, making it difficult for regular fans to afford tickets to their favorite events. This practice creates an unfair advantage for those with deeper pockets while disappointing many fans.

Fraudulent Tickets

Another risk of buying from scalpers is the possibility of purchasing fake or invalid tickets. Scalpers, especially those operating on unregulated platforms, may sell counterfeit tickets that leave buyers stranded at the venue. This not only wastes money but also ruins the experience for fans.

Limited Availability

When scalpers buy up large quantities of tickets, it reduces the availability of tickets for genuine fans. This practice skews the market, creating artificial scarcity and driving up prices. As a result, many fans miss out on attending events they are genuinely excited about.

Negative Impact on Artists and Events

Scalping can harm artists, event organizers, and venues. When tickets are resold at inflated prices, fans may associate the high costs with the event itself, tarnishing the reputation of the artist or organizer. Additionally, empty seats at sold-out events—caused by unsold scalper tickets—can detract from the event’s atmosphere and success.

Encouragement of Unethical Practices

Ticket scalping perpetuates unethical behavior in the ticketing industry. By profiting off fans’ enthusiasm, scalpers prioritize personal gain over fairness and transparency, creating a system that undermines the joy of attending live events.

How to Spot a Ticket Scalper

Enjoy concerts without falling victim to scalpers.

Check the Price

If a ticket is being sold at a price significantly higher than its original value, it’s likely from a scalper. Always compare the price with the event’s official ticketing platform.

Verify the Seller

Buy tickets only from trusted sources. If a seller is operating through unofficial channels or lacks credible reviews, they may be a scalper.

Look for Red Flags in Communication

Scalpers often pressure buyers into making quick decisions. If a seller is overly pushy or vague about ticket details, proceed with caution.

Beware of Social Media Listings

While social media can be a convenient platform for ticket resales, it’s also a hotbed for scalping. Be cautious of sellers with newly created profiles or limited activity.

Avoid Unregulated Platforms

Stick to official ticketing websites or platforms with buyer protection policies. Unregulated platforms often lack safeguards against scalping and fraud.

Check for Multiple Listings

Scalpers frequently list multiple tickets for the same event. If a seller has an unusually large number of tickets, they’re likely a scalper.

Inspect the Ticket’s Details

Ensure that the ticket includes clear and accurate details, such as the event date, time, and seat number. Vague or incomplete information can be a sign of a fraudulent ticket.

Be Wary of Deep Discounts

While scalpers typically mark up prices, some may offer fake tickets at suspiciously low prices to lure buyers. If a deal seems too good to be true, then it probably is.

Use Anti-Scalping Tools

Some ticketing platforms offer features to combat scalping, such as dynamic pricing or personalized ticketing. Take advantage of these tools to secure legitimate tickets.

Pay Attention to Timing

Scalpers often flood the market immediately after tickets sell out. Avoid making impulsive purchases during this period, as prices may drop closer to the event date.

Final Thoughts

Ticket scalping is an exploitative practice that harms fans, artists, and the ticketing industry as a whole. From inflated prices to the risk of fraudulent tickets, scalping creates unnecessary obstacles for those who simply want to enjoy live events. By understanding how scalping works and knowing how to spot scalpers, you can protect yourself from falling victim to this unfair practice. Remember to always buy tickets from trusted sources and advocate for fair ticketing policies to ensure that everyone has a chance to enjoy their favorite events.