Police warn about fake Olympics tickets

Lincolnshire police are warning Lincolnites looking to go to the 2012 Olympics to be vigilant when buying their tickets.

Over eight million tickets for the Olympics will go on sale March 15 and it may be tempting for thieves to sell fake tickets or commit identity fraud.

Detective Sergeant Ian Jarman of the Lincolnshire Police Economic Crime Unit said: “The 2012 Games will be one of the biggest sporting events this country has ever hosted, with over 10m tickets available for events right across the country.

“Criminals will be looking for ways to con and steal, either through selling fake tickets or setting up professional looking sites which may look honest, but could leave you a victim.

“There is some easy-to-follow advice which will help keep you safe and ensure you can enjoy the Games next year.”

If you are buying a ticket for the Games, there are steps to take to avoid disappointment.

• The only way to apply for tickets is at the Games’ Official Website, or a postal form from and Lloyds TSB branch. Anywhere else is a scam risk.
• If you cannot attend after buying a ticket, it should be sent back to the London 2012 ticket exchange, where it will be refunded.
• There are only three providers of holiday packages in the UK — Thomas Cook, Prestige Travel and Jet Set Travel.
• Other websites are not authorised to sell tickets or packages in the UK. See terms and conditions to check what you are being sold.
• Any tickets for sale online before March 15 are not genuine, and should be reported.

For more information on the Olympic and Paralympic Games, visit London 2012.

Pictured, the Olympic Stadium in London.

Source: Lincolnshire Police | Photo: Computer Weekly