Fans Advised to Stay Alert Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

From fake ticket sales to bogus travel deals, experts are urging football supporters to be cautious when making online purchases linked to the FIFA World Cup.

Global (02 June 2026) – Don’t let the scammers score! As excitement builds ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, South Africans are being urged to stay alert to online scams that often emerge around major sporting events.

Cybersecurity experts and consumer protection organisations have warned that global tournaments frequently attract fraudsters looking to take advantage of eager supporters searching for tickets, accommodation, travel packages and exclusive experiences.

Here are some of the most common World Cup-related scams to watch out for:

1. Fake ticket sales

Fraudsters often create convincing advertisements, websites and social media posts offering tickets that either do not exist or are sold illegally.

2. Bogus travel packages

Supporters should be cautious of heavily discounted travel deals that promise flights, transport and match experiences at unrealistic prices.

3. Fake accommodation listings

Scammers sometimes advertise accommodation that does not exist or has already been booked, leaving travellers stranded upon arrival.

4. Phishing scams

Criminals may impersonate legitimate organisations and send messages encouraging people to click suspicious links or provide personal and banking information.

5. Fake competitions and giveaways

Offers claiming to provide free tickets, VIP experiences or travel packages are often designed to collect personal information or financial details.

6. Impersonation websites

Some scammers create websites that closely resemble official tournament or ticketing platforms in an attempt to trick supporters into making payments.

Experts advise supporters to verify websites before making purchases, avoid sharing sensitive information with unverified sources and be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.

While millions of fans will enjoy following the tournament online, a little extra vigilance can help ensure the excitement of the FIFA World Cup is not overshadowed by fraud.

Sources: Supplied 

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by Karabo Peter

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