Gardaí urge music lovers to 'be alert' as scammers target Irish Taylor Swift fans

People are advised to "be alert" as scammers target Irish music fans seeking to buy tickets to sold out concerts. 

An Garda Síochána today (June 4) issued an alert urging music lovers - particularly Taylor Swift and Coldplay fans - to avoid purchasing unofficial resale tickets due to scams currently circulating. 

In a statement, a Garda spokesperson stated, "With some major acts scheduled to play in Ireland over the summer there are a number of scams targeting those looking to buy tickets for the sold out concerts - particularly Taylor Swift and Cold Play.

"Stick to official retailers. Ticket Master is the official retailer for both these concerts and will offer a resale option closer to the date of the concerts. They will only sell tickets at face value. 

"Only enter official competitions advertised by legitimate companies on their official websites. You can use www.who.ie to check when a website was created. Be cautious of copycat websites."

They continued: "Be alert to scammers on social media selling tickets. Especially newly set up profiles.

"Avoid offers that seem too good to be true. Below price selling for these concerts is most likely a scam. Don’t pay by bank transfer or bitcoin. If you do choose to buy tickets from an individual seller use a credit card which will may provide you with some protection. 

"Your personal data is valuable to these scammers, DOB, address, middle/maiden name. Be cautious who you share this with." 

Pop superstar Taylor Swift is set to play three nights at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on June 28, 29 and 30, while Coldplay will play four nights at Croke Park on August 29 and 30 and September 1 and 2. 

Tickets for both shows are completely sold out.