Excitement is brewing as the new football season approaches, with fans eagerly anticipating the possibility of Arne Slot’s team securing consecutive titles after over forty years and surpassing Manchester United in the historical rankings.
Each supporter carries their own aspirations and aspirations into the upcoming season. For enthusiasts of the Women’s Super League, it is a momentous occasion to celebrate the Lionesses’ back-to-back victories in the Euros.
Anticipating a surge in demand for tickets at the commencement of the season, I urge football fans nationwide to remain vigilant against fraudsters who exploit the fervor surrounding match attendance. Recent data from Lloyds Bank and the Home Office reveal that over £2.5 million has been unlawfully taken from dedicated football fans in the past two years, with more than 12,000 individuals falling victim to ticket scams.
The repercussions of these scams extend beyond financial losses, causing profound emotional distress as fans transition from the excitement of attending a major game to the devastation of realizing they have been deceived.
Fraudsters are actively targeting football fans nationwide, with supporters of Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Manchester City being among the most frequently victimized groups.
In addition to England, ticket scams are prevalent in Scotland and Wales, with fans of Celtic, Rangers, and Wrexham experiencing fraudulent activities.
Young adults aged 25 to 34 face the highest risk of falling prey to such scams, with more than three-quarters of fraudulent transactions occurring on social media platforms. It is imperative for technology companies to enhance their efforts in safeguarding the public against fraudulent schemes.
The forthcoming Online Safety Act will mandate platforms to eliminate fraudulent content, underscoring the collective need to combat scam artists. Collaboration among industry stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, and consumer advocacy groups is crucial in addressing this issue and shielding ordinary citizens from financial exploitation.
The upcoming Fraud Strategy will prioritize public awareness, aiming to preserve individuals’ finances as part of the government’s overarching Plan for Change. Ahead of the new season, it is vital for individuals seeking football tickets to adhere to three fundamental principles: Stop, Think, Fraud.
Purchase tickets exclusively from authorized sources like official club websites, ticket offices, or approved partners. Avoid engaging with offers advertised on social media and opt for secure payment methods to prevent falling victim to scams.
In the words of the revered Bill Shankly, football transcends mere sport in the UK—it is our national passion. Amid the fervor of the upcoming season, vigilance against fraudulent activities is paramount. Let us unite to eradicate fraud from the realm of football.
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