NC attorney general warns fans of ticket scams ahead of UNC-Duke game
RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson is warning fans to watch for ticket scams circulating on social media ahead of the UNC-Duke men’s basketball game this weekend.
Jackson’s office says posts on TikTok and other platforms are advertising tickets to the Feb. 7 game at the Dean Smith Center, often claiming the seller can’t attend because of a death in the family or another emergency. Scammers then ask buyers to send money through apps such as Venmo or Zelle, officials said, and provide counterfeit tickets after payment is made.
“The UNC-Duke rivalry is one of the most anticipated sporting events in the country,” Jackson said. “Scammers are trying to exploit that excitement to trick fans into purchasing fake tickets.”
Jackson encouraged fans to take precautions before buying tickets, including:
- Stick to reputable platforms. Purchase through established ticket sites and verify the website address before entering payment information.
- Be wary of “sob stories.” Officials say claims of urgent sales tied to family tragedies are a common tactic used to lower a buyer’s guard.
- Pay with protection. Use a credit card when possible, which may offer better fraud protection than debit cards or peer-to-peer payment apps.
- Check refund policies. Legitimate sellers should have clear refund terms and be able to answer questions.
- Know the law on in-person sales. North Carolina law generally limits in-person ticket resales to no more than $3 above face value, the attorney general’s office said.
Anyone who believes they may have been scammed, or who has concerns about a ticket seller, can contact the Consumer Protection Division at 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or file a complaint online through the attorney general’s office.
