The FIFA World Cup is about to get started. As it happens with every major global event, online fraud and scams will be triggered by the fans’ enthusiasm and all the attention drawn to the event. After all, millions of people will be following their favorite teams, trying to buy gear online and participating a lot more in social networks discussing the games and players. Trained Russian private investigators advise soccer fans to be aware of the following possible frauds online.

Ticket fraud and fake travel websites

Many fans wait until their teams have advanced towards the finals to travel and buy tickets to the games. Those last minute internet purchases are frequently done without any research, in hopes to find anything available. Online scammers will try to take advantage of the people who do these kind of purchases by setting up fraudulent websites. If you are planning to contact a travel agency online, do some research first. It might be somehow an urgent matter, but avoiding being a victim is important, so take your time and try to obtain as much information as you can from this company. Make sure you are visiting the official travel agency website, check for reviews and references online, and make sure the website is secure by checking if it has https and a lock in the search bar in the top. If you want to be 100% sure it is a legitimate business, you can hire a professional investigator to conduct a company background check and verify the agency is a registered legal business.

Fan ID scams

A Fan ID is like a visa permit for people who have purchased tickets to the World Cup. Once people have a ticket to a game, they can apply for a Fan ID in order to enter Russia. The permit is valid only during the World Cup event and only for people who prove they have tickets to the matches.  Some online scammers are luring people into paying a fee to obtain a Fan ID. If you need one, make sure you contact the right authority or look for more information on the FIFA website.

Contests and Lottery scams

Scammers will also try to target all of those who were hoping to live this experience, but could not afford it. Every fan would love to win a free ticket to the World Cup, but chances are it will be a scam. Be careful with any emails that notify you have been the winner. Most of them contain an attachment that will have a computer virus (malware) or will request you to visit another site to submit personal details. The final goal of an online criminal is to obtain something valuable, so protect your personal information! Do not download attachments from unknown sources and do not enter your personal information in any unknown website, even if the promise is a free ticket to the World Cup.

Fake sponsor websites

During other major events in the past, fraudsters have created fake sponsor websites to deceive people. Investigators in Moscow anticipate there will be fraudulent websites very similar to the sites of big brands like Visa, or even FIFA. Usually, those are created for phishing purposes. The criminals will attempt to obtain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details. Research online what is the official website before entering the site or submitting information.

The soccer World Cup is one of the most popular global sport events. Try to enjoy it while staying safe!  If you’re dealing with a person or company you’re not sure about, contact us for help.

C. Wright
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