The World Series is almost here, and excitement is sky-high for fans of the Blue Jays and Dodgers. But as ticket prices soar, so do the scams. Fraudsters are circling online marketplaces, ready to pounce on desperate fans looking for last-minute seats. Before you hit “buy,” here’s how to keep your wallet safe and your playoff dreams alive.
1. Stick to Verified Ticket Sellers
If it’s not through MLB, Ticketmaster, StubHub, or another verified reseller, proceed with caution. Scammers often mimic legitimate sites with near-identical URLs. Always double-check the website address and make sure the payment portal is secure before entering any details.
2. Avoid Social Media “Deals” That Sound Too Good
Facebook Marketplace and X (formerly Twitter) are full of fake sellers offering “extra tickets” for cheap. If someone’s asking you to pay via e-transfer or Venmo without proof, walk away. A good rule: if it feels like a steal, it probably is.
3. Don’t Share Personal Info or Screenshots
Never send your personal info or ticket barcodes online. Scammers can copy or resell them instantly. Only share confirmation numbers or details through verified ticket platforms. Think twice before showing off your seat on Instagram, too — barcodes can be duplicated.
4. Watch Out for Counterfeit PDFs
Digital tickets make life easier, but they’ve also made scams simpler. Many fake tickets look flawless. When buying secondhand, insist on proof of purchase or meet in person at a box office to verify before paying.
5. Pay With Protection
Always use a credit card or secure payment method that offers fraud protection. Avoid wire transfers or cash apps, which leave you empty-handed if things go wrong. Your bank’s dispute process is your safety net.
Baseball heartbreak is one thing — getting scammed is another. With a little caution and a lot of common sense, Blue Jays and Dodgers fans can enjoy every pitch of the World Series without a single foul in their finances. Batter up, but buy smart.