Wisconsin Better Business Bureau: Warns about potential Rose Bowl ticket scams

CONTACT: Susan Bach, Director of Communications

PHONE: 414- 847- 6085

FAX: 414-302- 0355

E-MAIL: sbach@wisconsin.bbb.org

Milwaukee, Wis. –The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be careful while purchasing tickets for the upcoming Rose Bowl.

Although Badger fans won’t know until Sunday if the University of Wisconsin’s football team is invited to the Rose Bowl, many fans are already eagerly trying to purchase ticket packages.

Scams are common, especially in the form of counterfeit tickets, either from online sites like Craig’s List and ebay, or from ticket scalpers and online agencies that do not deliver.

“Scam artists see major sporting events like bowl games as an opportunity to make money,” said Randall Hoth, president/CEO of the Wisconsin BBB. “Unfortunately, buyers need to beware.”

Rose Bowl ticket scammers have a history with Wisconsin games. In 1994, nearly 10,000 Badger fans made the long journey to California after purchasing a ticket package, only to discover that they had been scammed and did not have legitimate tickets to the game. Before boarding the plane, the BBB recommends having your ticket for the game in hand to prevent a similar situation.

To prevent falling victim to such a scam, the BBB recommends thoroughly investigating the person or agency selling tickets. Consumers should also be especially wary about purchasing tickets online. Sites like Craig’s List and eBay might offer good deals, but the chance of being scammed on such sites is very high.

The BBB offers these tips to make sure you do not get scammed:

* While purchasing tickets online, always use a credit card or PayPal, so that charges can be disputed. Ask for a picture of the ticket, verify it using the venue’s seating chart, and get a receipt.

* Never leave the website to finish a transaction; you will lose protection a website like eBay provides.

* Try to buy from someone who is local and has a good history of satisfying customers. Check other consumers’ feedback before purchasing tickets from the seller.

* Get the seller’s real name and contact information.

* Never go alone to pick up tickets purchased from someone online, and always meet in a public place. The “seller” knows when and where you’re going to be, and that you’re carrying a lot of cash. He/she may be setting you up to get robbed.

* Only buy from people or ticket brokers that you trust. Look for a BBB logo to select a ticket broker that is accredited by the BBB, or find one at http://www.bbb.org.

For more information or further inquiries, please contact the Wisconsin BBB at http://www.wisconsin.bbb.org or 414-847-6000 (metro Milwaukee), (920)-734-4352 (Appleton) or 1-800-273-1002 (elsewhere in Wisconsin).