The 2018 FIFA World Cup kicks off in Russia on Thursday, June 14. Action Fraud, the UK police reporting line for fraud cases, warns of ticket vendors or private individuals attempting to sell on a match ticket via an online marketplace. Or; a fraudulent website or operator may offer non-existent flights or other transport to host cities. Or; an accommodation booking service, hotel or operator, may offer seemingly convenient accommodation in one of the host cities for the duration of the game. Or, lottery or competition organisers may claim that you’ve won a prize or cash related to the tournament. The authorities say that if something looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Director of Action Fraud, Pauline Smith, said: “The number of reports made to Action Fraud following the 2014 World Cup show that fraudsters will try every trick in the book to take advantage of people at what should be an exciting time and event. It is crucial that you take some time to follow some basic checks designed to protect you from falling victim to fraud. If you think you have been a victim of fraud, report it to Action Fraud.”
FIFA is reminding fans that FIFA.com/tickets is the only official and legitimate website from which to buy World Cup tickets. For hospitality tickets the online official source is: https://hospitality.fifa.com/hospitality2018.
ID and a valid ticket will be required for fans to be able to enter the 2018 World Cup stadiums; visit www.fan-id.ru. Even President Putin has the laminated badge for the tournament, which allows free use of public transport between and within the host cities.
If you have been a victim of fraud or cyber crime, report it to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Picture by Mark Rowe: West Ham statue of 1966 World Cup winners, east London.
