CONCERTGOERS HAVE BEEN urged to be cautious when buying resale tickets after a 28% increase in purchase scams was recorded during the first half of this year.

In a statement, Bank of Ireland warned that fraudsters are increasingly targeting fans through fake listings on social media, online marketplaces and unofficial resale sites.

The bank said warning signs include tickets being offered at unusually low prices, sellers pushing for an immediate payment, requests to move the transaction away from an official resale platform, and screenshots being offered as the only proof of purchase.

Nicola Sadlier, Bank of Ireland’s head of fraud protection, said scammers often exploit the excitement around major events.

“If you are looking for tickets, stick to verified resale platforms and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true,” Sadlier said.

Fans are being advised to buy only through official sellers or verified resale services and to contact their bank immediately if they believe they have been targeted.

The warning applies for all major events still to come this summer, many of which are already sold out.

Electric Picnic and All Together Now festivals will take place later this summer, and a number of gigs are also coming up – Luke Combs at Slane Castle, The Weeknd and Bon Jovi at Croke Park, and Moby and IDLES at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham.