Thousands of people in the UK fall for ticket scams every year. Don’t become another one: read our expert advice on avoiding #TicketFraud http://www.getsafeonline.org/tickets

Buy tickets only from the venue’s box office, promoter, official agent or reputable ticket exchange site #TicketFraud http://www.getsafeonline.org/tickets

Tickets advertised in places such as social media, online marketplaces and fan forums may be fake or non-existent. This is however authentic the seller may seem and whether they’re advertised at, below or above face value #TicketFraud http://www.getsafeonline.org/tickets

When possible, pay for tickets by credit card for increased protection over other payment methods #TicketFraud http://www.getsafeonline.org/tickets

Never pay a company or individual you don’t know for tickets by bank transfer. The responsibility for losses lies with you, and your bank isn’t obliged to refund your money #TicketFraud http://www.getsafeonline.org/tickets

Before buying tickets online check that the website is genuine (carefully enter the address yourself, not from a link) and secure (‘https’ and a locked padlock) and log out when you’re done. Check the site at www.getsafeonline.org/checkawebsite #TicketFraud

If you think you’ve been a victim of ticket fraud, report it to @actionfrauduk at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101 #TicketFraud http://www.getsafeonline.org/tickets