NEWARK – With Game 3 of the World Series taking place tonight at Citi Field, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs today cautioned consumers to be alert for potential ticket scams.
"In light of the high demand for tickets to see the Mets in the World Series in New York and New Jersey, consumers should know that caution is the rule of the game when it comes to buying tickets from re-sellers," Acting Attorney General John J. Hoffman said. "Many ticket scammers are looking to profit at the expense of fans, and fans need to be aware of that when looking for tickets."
"With ticket demand outstripping supply, consumers need to be smart when trying to obtain tickets to World Series games in New York," said Steve Lee, Acting Director of the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. "Mets fans or fans of the other team in the World Series should be especially wary of any unsolicited text messages, emails, phone calls or other communications that are offering World Series tickets for sale at a discount."
The sale of counterfeit tickets is one primary concern. Consumers may want to consider conducting business with an established ticket re-seller who guarantees the validity of their tickets. Consumers can call the Division of Consumer Affairs toll-free within New Jersey at 1-800-242-5846 to inquire whether any complaints have been filed against a ticket re-seller.
Learn about your tickets before making a purchase. Ask for the ticket's original face value and check the section, row and seat number on the ticket with the seating chart of the stadium. Make certain the seat advertised actually exists.
Consumers should also check for the re-seller's refund and return policies and read through the terms of the sale. Consumers might want to pay for their ticket purchases with credit cards rather than by personal check, cash, wire transfer or money order, as an extra level of protection. Keep copies of all transaction records and receipts.
The State of New Jersey does not limit the amount a person can charge when reselling a ticket online.
To learn more about ticket sale scams, read the Consumer Brief here.
A list of all Consumer Briefs can be viewed here.
Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business, or suspect any other form of consumer abuse, can file an online complaint with the State Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or by calling 1-800-242-5846 (toll free within New Jersey) or 973-504-6200.
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