Competition Bureau Warns Ticket Scams Ahead of World Cup
As Canada gears up to host 13 FIFA matches, the Competition Bureau is flagging fake sellers, misleading pricing, and pressure tactics targeting fans.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup drawing closer and 13 matches scheduled to take place across Canada, the Competition Bureau is sounding the alarm about ticket scams targeting eager fans.
The Bureau released a statement warning consumers to stay vigilant when purchasing tickets to high-demand events, including World Cup matches. Scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to exploit the excitement: fake websites that mimic official ticketing platforms, sponsored ads designed to look legitimate, and logos stolen from authorized sellers. These fraudsters build trust before stealing money and personal information.
Other common deceptive practices include misleading pricing, where final costs appear much higher than advertised due to hidden fees added at checkout. Pressure tactics like countdown timers and "only a few tickets left" messages—sometimes genuine, sometimes entirely fabricated—are also prevalent. The Bureau advises purchasing only from trusted sources: official event organizers, venue websites, or reputable ticketing platforms. Use protected payment methods like credit cards rather than gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrencies, which offer no buyer protection.
For Toronto residents planning to attend World Cup matches at Rogers Stadium or travel to other host cities, verification is key: confirm event details directly on official websites before completing any purchase, keep all receipts and confirmation emails, and avoid sellers demanding unusual payment methods. As scammers grow more polished, the difference between a legitimate ticket and a worthless piece of paper is often just one click.