CHICAGO,
IL- January 31, 2013 – As faithful fans of the San Francisco 49ers and
Baltimore Ravens gear up for Super Bowl XLVII, scammers are also gearing up for
some big profits. As game day approaches the Better Business Bureau serving
Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) warns consumers to be cautious in the red
zone by being aware of counterfeit memorabilia, jerseys and game tickets.
“Fans
become very excited when their teams make it to the Super Bowl and want to show
their support,” said Steve J. Bernas, president & CEO of the Better
Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois. “It is important to do research
instead of making impulsive, emotionally charged decisions in the heat of the
moment.”
These
scams do not just pertain to the Super Bowl however, and faithful sports fans
should always be cautious when buying tickets and team memorabilia. One must
use discretion, check sellers and do research before supporting their team.
The BBB offers the following tips for consumers:
- When dealing with a ticketing business, make sure
they are reputable and have a track record of reliable ticket sales, as
well as game and travel packages.
- Try to use credit cards when buying online for this
added protection. Credit cards offer additional protection, in the case of
fraudulent purchases.
- When considering the purchase of a travel package,
verify details in writing. Request
a written confirmation after the purchase and verify for any discrepancies.
Make sure all vendors have the tickets on hand.
- Check the company out with free Business Reviews
from the Better Business Bureau.
For any transactions on the internet make sure:
- Before
choosing an online ticket broker or reseller, make sure that your purchase
is 100% guaranteed and look for the BBB Online Reliability Program seal. The
internet provides a means for illegitimate sellers to take advantage of
online shoppers. These sellers may not be licensed to resell tickets.
- When purchasing tickets
through eBay, check the seller’s feedback history, items sold and
comments. Look for a history of ticket sales for previous Super Bowls.
- Check that the contact
information matches all other instructions given in the ad. In some
instances scammers are able to take sellers ads and redirect the buyers to
contact them instead.
- Read all fine print, and be
sure to verify the ticket delivery dates.
For more
consumer advice, visit bbb.org
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As a private, non-profit organization, the purpose
of the Better Business Bureau is to promote an ethical marketplace. BBBs help
resolve buyer/seller complaints by means of conciliation, mediation and
arbitration. BBBs also review advertising claims, online business practices and
charitable organizations. BBBs develop and issue reviews on businesses and
nonprofit organizations and encourage people to check out a company or charity
before making a purchase or donation.
