RUGBY fans in Swansea planning to purchase World Cup tickets are being urged to check that they are buying from an official seller.
Swansea Trading Standards has issued the advice because the high demand for tickets is expected to encourage ‘fake’ ticket sellers to offer counterfeit tickets.
Fans can go online and use the ‘official checker’ and ensure that the outlet they are buying tickets from has been approved to sell Rugby World Cup 2015 tickets.
David Picken, Swansea Council Trading Standards Officer, said: “Any time an event of this size takes place, it tends to encourage a rogue element that attempt to con the public out of money.
“Whilst we haven’t had any specific calls in Swansea about counterfeit tickets, it’s always worth reminding fans to be vigilant and only buy from approved tickets sellers.”
The call follows advice from the National Trading Standards eCrime Team.
Mike Andrews, the lead coordinator for the National Trading Standards eCrime Team, said: “Apart from the risks of buying from unauthorised sellers, we are warning fans not to succumb to last-minute Rugby World Cup fever and fall foul of scammers and rogue ticket agents who will be looking to cash in on their enthusiasm.
“People need to understand that only those fans with tickets bought from official sources will be guaranteed admission to matches, and tickets not bought from official channels are liable for cancellation, so heeding our advice could help avoid bitter and costly disappointment at the turnstiles.”
If you are concerned that a sale may be fraudulent or that you have been sold counterfeit Rugby World Cup 2015 tickets, visit http://www.tradingstandardsecrime.org.uk/beware-of-rugby-world-cup-2015-ticket-scams/ for more advice.
Tickets are still available, so if you are still hoping to get a ticket, you should ensure that you are buying Rugby World Cup 2015 match tickets, supporter tours or hospitality packages from an official channel.
More information and links to buy tickets through the official channels can be found at www.rugbyworldcup.com/ticketing
Help keep news FREE for our readers
Supporting your local community newspaper/online news outlet is crucial now more than ever. If you believe in independent journalism, then consider making a valuable contribution by making a one-time or monthly donation. We operate in rural areas where providing unbiased news can be challenging. Read More About Supporting The West Wales Chronicle
