As Super Bowl LIX approaches, fans eagerly prepare for the excitement of game day, but scammers are just as ready. Cybercriminals use major events like the Super Bowl to trick unsuspecting fans into purchasing fake tickets, falling for phishing scams, or even donating to fraudulent charities.
With advanced tactics, including AI-powered phishing and fake travel deals, scammers are making their schemes harder to detect. Knowing how these scams work and how to protect yourself can help you enjoy the big game without falling victim.
Key Takeaways
Scammers are using various tactics like fake tickets, phishing emails, and fraudulent travel deals during Super Bowl LIX.
- Buy tickets only from verified sources and use secure payment methods to avoid fake ticket scams.
- Be cautious of unsolicited messages and enable two-factor authentication for added security against AI-powered phishing scams.
- Verify charities and VIP packages before making payments or sharing personal information.
Common Super Bowl scams and how to avoid them
As Super Bowl excitement grows, so does the risk of scams. Fans must stay alert to deceptive tactics, including fake tickets and counterfeit merchandise. By understanding these common scams, you can take proactive steps to ensure your experience remains enjoyable and secure.
Fake ticket sales and unauthorized resellers
Scoring a Super Bowl ticket is a dream for many, but it’s also a prime target for scammers. Fraudulent websites posing as legitimate ticket sellers—sometimes even appearing in Google ads—trick buyers into purchasing fake or non-existent tickets.
Security expert Patrick McCall warns that scammers create convincing counterfeit websites with minor spelling errors in the URL to deceive buyers. Fans should avoid clicking on search engine ads and instead visit official sources like the NFL website or VerifiedTicketSource.com to purchase tickets.
To protect yourself, buy tickets from verified resellers and use secure payment methods like credit cards, which offer protection against fraud. Avoid paying through Venmo, Cash App, gift cards, or cash. Always check URLs for spelling errors to ensure the site is legitimate.
Phishing emails and AI-powered scams
Cybercriminals use AI to create personalized phishing scams, appearing as emails, texts, or calls that seem familiar. They exploit recent online activity to craft convincing messages, tricking victims into sharing personal details.
To avoid falling for these scams, be cautious of unsolicited messages with exclusive deals. Never click on suspicious links, and always contact the official ticket provider directly if you receive unexpected confirmation emails. Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts provides added security.
Fake travel and hospitality packages
Many Super Bowl LIX attendees traveling to New Orleans are targets for scammers offering fake travel deals, including hotel and VIP packages. These fraudulent agencies collect payments and vanish, often citing weather or security issues to justify non-refundable charges. They may also manipulate contract language, such as using “no return” instead of “no returns,” to appear credible.
To these scams, it is best to book flights and hotels through well-known travel providers rather than unfamiliar websites. Reading refund policies carefully is essential, as vague or incorrect language can be a sign of fraud. Any VIP or hospitality package should be verified before making a payment to ensure its legitimacy.
Social media and fake giveaways
With the Super Bowl’s excitement on social media, fake contests and exclusive offers are being used to lure fans, promising free tickets, merchandise, or experiences that never materialize.
Scam contests and “Exclusive” offers: Social media is filled with fake Super Bowl giveaways offering free tickets, merchandise, or meet-and-greets, often asking for personal details or a “processing fee,” but no prize is ever delivered. Scammers may impersonate brands or influencers, using AI-generated videos to appear credible.
Legitimate giveaways don’t require payment. If a contest asks for money or personal info, it’s probably a scam. Always check for a blue checkmark on social media profiles and report suspicious accounts.
Fake charity donations: Scammers create fake charities claiming to support youth sports or Super Bowl-related causes, pressuring fans to donate quickly using emotional appeals. To avoid these scams, verify charities on platforms like Charity Navigator before donating. Avoid charities asking for gift cards or cryptocurrency, as these are hard to trace. Donate only through official websites, not links from emails or social media.
Counterfeit merchandise scams: Super Bowl merchandise, like jerseys and hats, attracts counterfeiters, with fake items often sold at deep discounts online. These products are usually poor quality or never arrive. To avoid scams, buy merchandise only from official retailers like the NFL Shop or Fanatics. If a deal seems too good to be true, check seller reviews and return policies for authenticity.
Protecting yourself from Super Bowl cyber threats
Stay alert for QR code scams: Scammers are using malicious QR codes in online ads, emails, and flyers to redirect fans to phishing sites or download malware. To reduce risks, only scan QR codes from trusted sources like official team websites and use your phone’s security settings to detect suspicious codes.
Use strong cybersecurity measures: To protect against fraud, experts recommend updating antivirus software to detect phishing and malware, using strong, unique passwords for ticketing and banking sites, and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) for added account security.
What to do If you’ve been scammed
If you suspect a scam, act quickly. Report it to the FTC and local authorities, dispute unauthorized charges with your credit card provider, and monitor your accounts for suspicious activity. Change your passwords if personal information was shared with a fraudulent site.
The Super Bowl should be a fun experience, not one overshadowed by scams. Stay informed, verify sources, use secure payment methods, and be cautious of red flags to protect yourself from fraud. With the right precautions, you can focus on enjoying the game.
