Scam alert: World Cup ticket and merchandise scams

Protecting yourself against World Cup ticket and merchandise scams

Major global events such as the FIFA World Cup often attract increased levels of fraudulent activity. High demand for tickets, travel and merchandise can create opportunities for criminals to exploit, particularly where there is a sense of urgency or limited availability.

What are the risks?

Common risks include: counterfeit or unofficial tickets; fraudulent resale platforms; and websites designed to appear legitimate while capturing personal and banking information. We are also seeing fake online stores, malicious mobile applications offering streaming or betting services, and card skimming devices used in busy environments, such as outside stadiums.

Even where there is no immediate financial loss, sharing personal information can leave individuals vulnerable to further fraud. Scammers may use this information to carry out convincing impersonation attempts, posing as trusted organisations to gain access to accounts or request payments.

How to protect yourself

  • Only purchase tickets from verified, official sources and take particular care with offers that appear unusually attractive or time sensitive.
  • Always check website addresses carefully before entering any personal or payment details.
  • Avoid downloading applications from unofficial providers.
  • Remain vigilant when making payments in crowded environments.

Several websites linked to FIFA World Cup related scams have already been identified. The following domains should be treated with caution and avoided:

fifa[.]ceo
fifa[.]help
filfa[.]org
fifa-online[.]com
fifa-2026[.]xyz
fifa-ticket[.]live
fifastore.us[.]com
fifaworldcup26[.]sale
worldcup26ticket[.]com
2026fifaworldcuptickets[.]online
fwc2026[.]net
fifa2026fworldcup[.]com
wvvw-fifa[.]com

Time to take five

The first thing to remember is to take five and be fraud aware:

  • If it seems too good to be true, then it probably is.
  • Are you being pushed into making a hasty purchase or decision? This is a red flag that the situation is not right.
  • Take another look at the website. If it doesn’t feel right then do not proceed.
  • Check the facts. Call the organisation on their official number. Do not use the re-dial or call back function on your telephone.
  • Take control. If you receive a call saying your bank has been compromised, hang up the telephone. Next you can either log into your online bank account to check for yourself, or telephone the Bank using the number listed on your debit card to speak to someone.

Help and support

Please remember, we’re here to help. If you think you have been a victim of this type of scam, please speak to your private banking team or relationship manager in the first instance. You can also contact the Private Bank on +44 (0) 1933 543 600 or the Racing Bank on +44 (0) 1933 543 543.

Weatherbys will never ask you to:

  • Share your online banking password
  • Request any one-time passcodes (OTPs)
  • Tell you to move money to a ‘safe account’.

If you’re ever unsure about a link, website, company, advert, email or text, please send it to fraud@weatherbys.bank for us to check, or ask your private banking team or relationship manager to forward it on your behalf.

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