Don’t Look Back in Anger! Watch out for ticket scams

With a 17% rise in purchase scams reported to Bank of Ireland in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, the Bank is urging customers to be extra vigilant if buying tickets for upcoming gigs.

Fraudsters are increasingly targeting music fans with fake ticket listings on social media and unofficial resale sites and these scams often leave victims out of pocket. With Oasis and Electric Picnic gigs coming up in August, fraudsters will be highly active. Remember, while Some Might Say it’s a bargain, it could be a scam. Don’t Look Back in Anger, fraud can happen at Supersonic speed, so think before you click.

Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland said: “We want our customers to enjoy the music, not fall victim to fraud. Scammers know how much people want to see popular bands or festivals and they’re using that to trick people into handing over their money. If something sounds too good to be true, it’s probably fraud. If you’ve been targeted or think you’ve fallen for a scam, contact your bank immediately. Bank of Ireland has a 24/7 fraud team available to support customers. The sooner you act, the better the chance of recovering your money.”

What to look out for:

• Selling tickets for sold-out gigs or for prices too good to be true.
• The seller is looking for a quick sale.
• They don’t give you the opportunity to see the ticket in person.
• Being pressured to make a quick decision.
• Adverts or messages that pop up on your social media (fraudsters can pay the social media companies to have their ads in front of you).

What to do:

• If you think you’ve been targeted, contact your bank immediately – the bank can try to stop the fraud and potentially recover funds.
• Bank of Ireland customers can call the Fraud Team 24/7, Freephone line 1800 946 764.