Better Business Bureau

BBB Offers Tips to Avoid Ticket Scams Ahead of Rolling Stones Concerts

The band is set to play two concerts at Soldier Field in the coming days

The Rolling Stones are set to kick off their latest world tour at Chicago’s Soldier Field this weekend, and the Better Business Bureau is warning music fans to use their common sense when it comes to purchasing tickets to the big shows.

The shows, set for Friday and Tuesday, are expected to draw massive crowds, but if you want to ensure that you’ll be at the venue, you’ll need to be on the lookout for fake ticket scams.

“Illegal ticket sellers know that fan fever can often cloud common sense and smart buying,” Steve Bernas, president and CEO of the BBB’s Chicago and Northern Illinois branch, said. “People need to be careful so they’re not ripped off by bad guys selling fake tickets and poor quality, unlicensed merchandise.”

Scammers have targeted big-time concerts like the Rolling Stones’ tour in the past, and could also target other big events like Lollapalooza and sporting events like Chicago Cubs and White Sox games.

In order to avoid scams, the BBB has a simple list of tips for buyers to follow this summer:

-Purchase directly from the venue or trusted vendors. A list of accredited ticket sellers can be found on the BBB website.

-Always check out ticket seller/broker ratings on the BBB website.

-Know an event’s refund policy.

-Use credit cards whenever possible that come with consumer protection.

-Be wary of advertisements. Fake ticket sellers often use pop-up ads.

For the most up to date information on ticket-selling scams and other advise, residents can visit the BBB website, or the organization’s scam tracker.

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