Huntley, IL – Football fans across northern Illinois are being urged to stay alert this week as police warn of an increase in fraudulent NFL ticket sales ahead of playoff games.
According to the Huntley Police Department, scammers are taking advantage of heightened demand for NFL playoff tickets—including potential Chicago Bears matchups—by posting fake listings on third-party websites and social media platforms. Officials say victims are often lured by prices that appear lower than official sellers, only to receive counterfeit tickets or no tickets at all.
Police say fraudulent activity has been rising as excitement builds around high-profile games, with scammers using convincing websites, phony advertisements, and direct messages to target buyers. Once payment is sent, victims may find their tickets are invalid at the gate or discover the seller has disappeared.
Authorities recommend fans only purchase tickets through official or verified sources, such as the Soldier Field box office or trusted ticket platforms. Buyers are also advised to double-check website URLs, ensuring they include “https” and a lock symbol before entering payment information.
Police further warn against purchasing tickets through online marketplaces or classified platforms, which are commonly used by scammers. Using secure payment methods, such as credit cards, can offer additional protection compared to cash, wire transfers, or peer-to-peer payment apps.
Officials say one of the biggest red flags is a deal that seems too good to be true. While counterfeit tickets may look legitimate, they often fail when scanned at stadium entrances.
Residents who believe they may have been targeted by a ticket scam are encouraged to report the incident to local authorities.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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