As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, fans eagerly await not only the exciting plays and entertaining commercials but also need to be cautious of potential scams that could target their money and personal information. According to Sen. Maggie Hassan, a Democrat from New Hampshire and a ranking member of the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee (JEC), there are numerous fraudulent activities surrounding sports betting, ticket sales, and merchandise related to the Super Bowl. Here’s a breakdown of the most common scams and how to avoid them.
Sports Betting Scams
This year, Americans are expected to bet a record $1.8 billion on Super Bowl LX, thanks in part to the surge in online sports betting. Unfortunately, some criminals have set up fraudulent websites that closely mimic legitimate gambling platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings. These scam sites often lure consumers in with “risk-free” bonuses, only to demand more deposits or refuse payouts later.
To protect themselves, consumers should verify the sportsbook’s physical location before placing bets. If it’s based outside the U.S., it’s not subject to U.S. laws or consumer protections, making it riskier. Bettors are advised to only engage with sites licensed and regulated by state gaming commissions and should disregard any promises of guaranteed wins.
Ticket Scams
Super Bowl tickets are, as always, in high demand, with prices starting at around $5,000. This demand attracts scammers who pose as legitimate ticket sellers, often through social media or unverified websites. Victims might end up with counterfeit tickets that get flagged at the event, or worse, receive nothing at all.
To stay secure, consumers should only buy tickets through official sources such as the NFL or through reputable resale platforms that offer buyer protections. It’s crucial to use secure payment methods that offer safeguards, like credit cards, rather than less secure options like wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
Merchandise Scams
The sale of Super Bowl-themed merchandise provides significant revenue for both legal businesses and scammers. In previous years, authorities seized millions worth of counterfeit goods ranging from jerseys to hats through operations like “Operation Team Player.” Such illegal sales often leave customers with expensive, low-quality imitations or nothing at all.
Consumers should verify retailers by checking their legitimacy with the Better Business Bureau or consulting state attorney general websites. Look for a physical address and working phone number to confirm the seller’s authenticity. Examining the site’s shipping, return, and refund policies can also provide added assurance before making a purchase.