How to Buy Scalped Tickets: Everything You Need to Know

Buying scalped tickets can be a convenient solution when you’re eager to attend a sold-out event, whether it’s a baseball game, a concert, or a major sports event like the Super Bowl.  

While ticket scalping can be controversial, it’s a practice that has been around for decades. With the advent of online ticket scalping platforms, the process has become more accessible but also riskier due to potential scams and inflated prices.  

This guide will walk you through how to buy scalped tickets safely, how to negotiate better deals, and how to avoid pitfalls. 

What is a Scalped Ticket? 

A scalped ticket refers to a ticket resold by a third party, often at a higher price than its original face value. These tickets are typically sold outside the event venue or online through various marketplaces and social media channels.

While the term “scalping” often carries negative connotations, the reality is that ticket reselling can benefit both buyers and sellers, especially when handled responsibly. 

For example, if you’ve missed the initial ticket sale for a concert or game, buying a scalped ticket may be your only option to get in. Scalping also provides sellers with an opportunity to profit from high-demand events.  

However, there are important risks and legal aspects to consider, depending on where you’re purchasing the ticket and what kind of event it is. 

How to Buy Scalped Tickets 

1. Buying Scalped Tickets at a Sox Game or Baseball Match 

If you’re planning to attend a Sox game or any other major baseball event, ticket scalpers are often easy to find near the stadium. However, in-person ticket buying requires a bit of know-how to avoid being overcharged or scammed.

Here’s how to buy scalped tickets at a sporting event: 

• Arrive Early for Better Deals: Scalpers will be eager to sell their tickets as the game approaches, but if you arrive early, you might be able to negotiate a better price. As the event start time gets closer, the pressure on the scalper increases to sell their tickets, which can often result in price drops. 

• Negotiate Like a Pro: Ticket prices from scalpers are often negotiable, especially closer to the event’s start. Don’t hesitate to haggle. Most scalpers are open to lowering their prices if it means making a quick sale. 

• Verify the Ticket: Always examine the ticket carefully, especially if it’s a printed one. Many venues now use digital tickets, so ask to see proof of purchase or the original receipt if possible. Additionally, if you’re dealing with a digital ticket, ask the seller to transfer the ticket to you via an official ticketing app before making any payments. 

2. Buying Scalped Tickets Online 

Buying scalped tickets online has become increasingly common, with platforms like Craigslist, eBay, and even Facebook Marketplace offering avenues for ticket resales. However, it’s important to be cautious when purchasing from these sources: 

• Use Reputable Platforms: Stick to well-known ticket resale platforms like StubHub or SeatGeek, where the transactions are often protected. These platforms typically verify tickets and offer a guarantee, ensuring you don’t end up with a fake or invalid ticket. 

• Be Wary of Suspicious Listings: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid purchasing tickets from sellers without verified accounts or from platforms that don’t offer buyer protections. If you’re using social media, check the seller’s profile for legitimacy and reviews. 

• Pay with a Traceable Method: Avoid paying with cash or wire transfers when buying online. Stick to credit cards or PayPal, which offer protection if the transaction turns out to be fraudulent. 

3. How to Buy Scalped Tickets at the Event 

If you’re attending a game or concert and want to buy scalped tickets last-minute at the venue, here’s how you can do it: 

• Compare Different Offers: Walk around and check the prices from different scalpers. Often, you’ll find varying prices, and comparing gives you a better idea of what’s reasonable. 

• Stay Safe: It’s essential to stay in well-lit, public areas when buying tickets in person. Never go to isolated spots or leave the event venue with the seller. 

• Ask for ID: When buying from scalpers, it’s wise to ask for some form of identification to ensure that the ticket is legitimate and that you can reach the seller in case there are any issues. 

How Easy is It to Buy Scalped Tickets? 

Buying scalped tickets is relatively easy, especially for popular events. The rise of online resale platforms has made it simple to purchase tickets from the comfort of your home.  

However, some events, like playoff games or concerts, can be harder to find tickets for, and prices may be inflated. In-person scalping near stadiums and arenas is common, especially in larger cities, but requires vigilance to avoid being scammed or overcharged. 

Tips for Buying Scalped Tickets Safely 

• Always Verify the Ticket: Whether it’s a physical or digital ticket, make sure to verify its legitimacy. Many venues offer ways to check if a ticket is valid using their official apps or customer service hotlines. 

• Check the Ticket’s Face Value: Knowing the original price of the ticket helps you avoid being ripped off. This also helps you gauge whether you’re getting a good deal when buying scalped tickets. 

• Use Safe Payment Methods: Whenever possible, use a payment method that offers buyer protection, such as a credit card or PayPal. 

• Avoid Cash Transactions: Paying in cash leaves you with no way to trace the transaction or recover your money if something goes wrong. 

• Use Multilogin for Automation: If you’re interested in ticket scalping as a business, platforms like Multilogin can automate the process, allowing you to manage multiple accounts and browser profiles, ensuring you stay under the radar and avoid bans. 

Legal Considerations of Buying Scalped Tickets 

Ticket scalping laws vary widely across different states and countries. In some areas, ticket scalping is legal but regulated, with restrictions on how much a ticket can be resold for. In other places, scalping is strictly prohibited.

Here are a few key points to consider: 

• California: Selling tickets for more than face value is illegal without a valid resale license. 

• New York: Ticket resellers must be licensed, and there are limits on how much they can charge above the face value. 

• UK: Ticket reselling is allowed, but strict guidelines exist around transparency and the use of bots for bulk purchases.