Soccer Fans Urged to Stay Vigilant Amid World Cup Ticket Scams

WHO:

ABC7 Chicago - Nati Tal, head of research at Guardio

ABC7 Chicago - FBI

WHAT:

ABC7 Chicago - A security group reported a 320% increase in malicious websites related to the World Cup.

NBC4 Washington - Some FIFA World Cup ticket seekers experienced cancellations and seat downgrades.

WHERE:

ABC7 Chicago - Online shops based in China are selling World Cup shirts and jerseys.

WHY:

ABC7 Chicago - Increased interest in the World Cup creates opportunities for fraudsters.

ABC7 Chicago - The FBI identified more than three dozen domains spoofing the legitimate FIFA website.

HOW:

ABC7 Chicago - Consumers are advised to purchase official, FIFA-licensed merchandise and obtain tickets through FIFA's official website.

ABC7 Chicago - Consumers should verify sellers by requesting a photo of the seller's driver's license and checking the website's address for legitimacy.

ABC7 Chicago - Guardio recommends avoiding sponsored search results and being cautious with links on social media.

ABC7 Chicago - Shoppers should look for a trusted payment gateway and avoid entering payment information directly into a vendor's website.

(UPDATED July 3, 2026 01:31 UTC)

A security group has reported a staggering 320% increase in malicious websites related to the World Cup, prompting warnings from the FBI about more than three dozen domains that are spoofing the legitimate FIFA website. As ticket seekers face cancellations and seat downgrades, consumers are advised to purchase official FIFA-licensed merchandise and obtain tickets through FIFA's official website to avoid falling victim to fraudsters. To ensure safe online shopping, it's recommended to verify sellers by requesting a photo of their driver's license, checking website legitimacy, and using trusted payment gateways instead of entering payment information directly on vendor sites.