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Super Bowl LIX: Fans Warned of Rising Scam Threats

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Thursday, January 29th 2026 at 13:27 GMT by East Bay Times
      Locales: California, Nevada, UNITED STATES

Super Bowl LIX: A Gridiron Battle... and a Scam Battlefield

As the anticipation for Super Bowl LIX - pitting the Kansas City Chiefs against the San Francisco 49ers in a highly-anticipated matchup in Las Vegas - reaches fever pitch, experts are warning fans to be just as prepared to defend against scams as they are to cheer on their teams. The confluence of excitement, high demand, and large sums of money changing hands creates a perfect storm for con artists, who are already gearing up to exploit eager football enthusiasts.

This isn't a new phenomenon. Every major event - from the Olympics to concerts - attracts scammers. However, the Super Bowl, with its massive viewership and passionate fanbase, consistently ranks high as a target. And this year, the added allure of Las Vegas, a city already known for its potential for fraud, amplifies the risk.

The Evolving Tactics of Super Bowl Scammers

The scams themselves aren't necessarily new, but their methods are becoming more sophisticated. The most common threats remain remarkably consistent: fake tickets, counterfeit merchandise, and phishing attempts. However, scammers are increasingly leveraging social media and the immediacy of digital communication to broaden their reach and create a sense of urgency.

• Fake Tickets: This continues to be the most prevalent scam. The promise of "too good to be true" deals, especially on resale markets, is the bait. Scammers are adept at creating convincing replicas or simply taking money for tickets they never intend to deliver. This year, the location in Las Vegas adds another layer of complexity, with increased demand and potential for fraudulent "VIP packages."

• Counterfeit Merchandise: Jerseys, hats, and other fan gear are perennial targets. While street vendors have always been a risk, the proliferation of online marketplaces and social media sellers means counterfeit goods are now easier to distribute and harder to trace. These items often lack quality and can be deceptively similar to authentic products.

• Phishing Attacks: Scammers are refining their phishing techniques, sending emails and texts that closely mimic legitimate communications from the NFL, ticket vendors (like Ticketmaster), or even official sponsors. These messages often request personal information, such as credit card details or account logins, under the guise of confirming a purchase or offering an exclusive deal.

• Charity Scams: The Super Bowl often sparks charitable giving. Scammers exploit this generosity by creating fake charities or impersonating legitimate organizations. They pressure victims into making quick donations, often with emotionally charged appeals.

• Social Media Lures: Social media platforms are fertile ground for scams. Fake accounts offering discounted tickets, "exclusive" meet-and-greets, or contests are common. These offers are designed to lure victims into providing personal information or making payments.

Protecting Yourself: A Game Plan for Fans

Staying safe doesn't mean avoiding the Super Bowl excitement. It simply requires a proactive approach and a healthy dose of skepticism. Here's how to protect yourself:

• Stick to Reputable Sources: Purchase tickets only from official NFL vendors (like Ticketmaster) or the teams' official websites. Verify the seller's credentials before making any purchase.

• Be Wary of Deals: If a deal seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is. Compare prices across multiple sources and be cautious of significantly discounted offers.

• Secure Your Information: Never share personal information, such as credit card numbers, Social Security numbers, or login credentials, with unverified sources.

• Verify Charitable Organizations: Before donating to any charity, research its legitimacy using resources like Charity Navigator or GuideStar.

• Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a suspected scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ftc.gov or call 1-877-FTC-HELP. Also report it to the platform where you encountered the scam (e.g., social media platform, email provider).

The Super Bowl is a time for fun, camaraderie, and celebrating athletic achievement. Don't let scammers intercept your enjoyment. By being vigilant, informed, and exercising common sense, fans can protect themselves and ensure a safe and memorable Super Bowl experience.