Music fans urged to stay vigilant as bank reports 28% rise in ticket scam cases
Ellen O'Donoghue
Bank of Ireland has urged music fans to stay vigilant against ticket scams.
The warning has been issued amid a 28 per cent rise in purchase scams being reported to the bank in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year.
It comes ahead of Luke Combs' sold-out Slane Castle concerts on July 18th and 19th, with thousands of fans expected to attend the iconic venue.
Fraudsters are increasingly targeting fans through fake ticket listings on social media, online marketplaces and unofficial resale websites.
Fans have been advised to look out for:
- Tickets being offered at unusually low prices
- Sellers looking for a quick sale
- Pressure to act fast or pay immediately
- Requests to move the purchase outside of an official ticket resale platform
- Sellers who can only provide screenshots as proof of purchase
- Sellers unwilling to use ticket transfer or resale facilities
- Ticket adverts or offers appearing on social media or through unsolicited messages
Nicola Sadlier, head of fraud protection at Bank of Ireland, said that demand for Luke Combs tickets remains high, with many fans looking for opportunities to secure tickets through resale channels.
"Fraudsters understand the excitement surrounding major events like this and often target fans who are keen not to miss out," she said.
"Whether you are buying tickets for Luke Combs, Electric Picnic or any other major summer events, it is important to take your time and make sure you are buying from a trusted source.
"If you are looking for tickets, stick to verified resale platforms and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.”
It is also worth noting that for Electric Picnic in particular, ticket transfer does not open until just a week or two before the festival takes place, so anyone trying to sell you tickets before then cannot transfer the tickets to you.
Bank of Ireland has advised fans to only buy through official ticket sellers or verified resale platforms.
If you think you have been targeted however, contact your bank immediately, as they can try to stop the fraud and potentially recover funds.
Bank of Ireland customers can call the Fraud Team 24/7, Freephone line 1800 946 764.
