As excitement builds for the historic Detroit Lions playoff game at Ford Field against the Los Angeles Rams, the risk of falling victim to ticket scams looms large. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers valuable insights on securing genuine tickets, emphasizing the pitfalls to avoid during this high-stakes event.
1. The Hype and the Risks: With Ford Field set to become a madhouse for the Lions’ first playoff game, the return of Matthew Stafford adds an extra layer of anticipation. However, amidst the frenzy, ticket scams pose a real threat, taking advantage of enthusiastic fans eager to witness this momentous occasion.
2. Homework for Ticket Hunters: Melanie Duquesnel, CEO and President of the Better Business Bureau Eastern Michigan Chapter, emphasizes the importance of doing homework to secure the best deal on Detroit Lions tickets. This involves checking multiple legitimate sites, with a strong warning against unvetted platforms like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.
3. Legitimate Platforms vs. Red Flags: Duquesnel identifies Ticketmaster and StubHub as reputable, vetted websites for purchasing tickets. The heightened demand for Lions tickets during successful seasons increases the likelihood of scams. She urges fans to be cautious and recommends directly visiting the Detroit Lions’ official website for authenticity.
4. The Allure of Scams: Exploring why sports ticket scams are prevalent, Duquesnel notes their simplicity and the rush people experience when seeking great deals. The combination of urgency and the desire to be part of a significant event can make individuals vulnerable to scams, especially during the Lions’ success.
5. First-Time Playoff Inflation: As this marks the first time the Detroit Lions host a home playoff game at Ford Field, ticket prices are naturally inflated. Duquesnel advises potential buyers to use credit cards for purchases, offering protection against fraudulent transactions. She underscores the importance of skepticism when a deal seems too good to be true.
6. Credit Cards as a Shield: Duquesnel stresses the use of credit cards over debit cards for online purchases. If discrepancies arise, credit card companies can often reverse charges, safeguarding buyers from financial losses. The importance of intuition is highlighted, with the rule of thumb being, “If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.”
7. Vigilance and Reporting: Staying vigilant and promptly reporting any suspicious activity is crucial. The BBB encourages individuals to trust their instincts and not hesitate to report scams to both law enforcement and the bureau. Duquesnel emphasizes the importance of sharing experiences to prevent others from falling victim to similar schemes.
8. Post-Scam Resilience: In the unfortunate event of a scam, Duquesnel urges victims not to be embarrassed but to share their experience. By doing so, they contribute to a collective effort to raise awareness and protect others from falling prey to similar scams.
Conclusion: As the Detroit Lions gear up for a historic playoff game, fans must navigate the ticket market cautiously. The BBB’s guidance serves as a beacon for enthusiasts, offering practical tips to secure legitimate tickets and avoid the pitfalls of scams. In an era where online transactions dominate, vigilance, skepticism, and prompt reporting remain essential to ensure a safe and memorable experience for all Lions supporters.
More from NFL Wisdom Imbibe: