HSBC has cautioned customers about the risks associated with purchasing tickets for festivals, concerts, and sporting events. As 2026 unfolds, many individuals are making plans for the year ahead, including attending various events. However, the bank has raised concerns that ‘criminals are actively targeting event tickets.’
In a recent communication to its customers, HSBC emphasized the high cost of tickets for such events and advised caution when encountering seemingly attractive deals. The bank warned that if a ticket offer appears too good to be true, it likely is. According to HSBC, common ticket scams involve fraudulent practices such as:
HSBC has also provided detailed information on ticket fraud on its official website, where a dedicated page on scam alerts can be found. The latest update from January 2026 highlighted the prevalent risks of ticket fraud and cautioned individuals against purchasing event tickets during this period.
Elaborating on how criminals exploit unsuspecting buyers, the bank explained, “Buying from unofficial sources puts you at risk of falling victim to fraud. Scammers often masquerade as legitimate sellers on platforms like social media or online marketplaces.”
“They may promise to deliver tickets via email or post upon receiving payment to their bank account. However, once payment is made and no tickets arrive, these scammers vanish, leaving buyers duped into purchasing fake or non-existent tickets,” the bank further warned.
On a positive note, HSBC shared practical tips for customers to protect themselves against fraudulent schemes. The bank advised individuals to only purchase tickets from authorized box offices or official sellers. When making online purchases, customers are urged to verify the legitimacy of the website and avoid paying for tickets through bank transfers.
Furthermore, HSBC recommended checking the privacy and returns policies before making a purchase and retaining any confirmations or receipts until after the event. Additionally, customers were advised against clicking on suspicious email or social media links offering tickets, as they could lead to malicious websites.
In the event of a suspected scam, HSBC encouraged individuals to report the incident to their bank and utilize online fraud reporting tools or contact the designated fraud hotline. The bank’s webpage also features warnings about various scams, including driving test scams, job scams, messaging scams, and romance scams, highlighting the importance of staying vigilant and seeking guidance from financial institutions if any concerns arise.