FIFA World Cup scams are proliferating ahead of 2026, with fraudsters using AI to create fake websites, selling counterfeit tickets, and promoting fake merchandise. Scammers often operate on social media, demanding advance payments for tickets or lodging that do not exist. Only purchase tickets via FIFA.com/tickets to avoid fraud.
FIFA Scams
- Fake Ticket Websites: Over 4,000 fake domains were registered in late 2025/early 2026, often appearing in search results. Always check the URL.
- Social Media Fraud: Fraudsters on platforms like Facebook often claim to sell tickets at face value but block buyers after payment.
- Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals: Be wary of discounted tickets or accommodation packages, which are frequently used to lure victims.
- Official Channels Only: Buy tickets only through official FIFA platforms.
- Reporting: Report suspicious activity to the Canadian Anti-fraud Center or your local authorities.
- Visa Scams: Watch out for fraudulent “official” visa offers; only use official government channels.
These scams can look highly sophisticated, with artificial intelligence creating perfectly forged branding, making it crucial to be skeptical of any ticket source that is not official.