Where are you buying your tickets?

226 people were victims of online ticketing fraud in Greater Manchester last year, losing more than £208,000.

Greater Manchester Police are on the look out for sports fans and those attending concerts and music festivals this summer not to fall prey to ticket scams. 

They have been setting up fake websites offering tickets for sold out events, or even before tickets have officially gone on sale.  

Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Davies of GMP's Economic Crime Unit says: "Perhaps you've left it too late, or maybe they're too expensive and you think you might be able to get them cheaper elsewhere. 

"The temptation is always to start searching online, but buying from unofficial sources often results in people receiving fake tickets, or even none at all. That is why we always advise purchasing from official suppliers, to avoid the crushing disappointment that comes when you realise you won't be going to that special gig or match after all."

Greater Manchester Police say there are some steps you can take:
- Check with event organisers to see how and when tickets are being distributed,
- Always read the terms and conditions on websites,
- Check that the ticket supplier has a landline in this country and a proper address, rather than a PO Box.
- Payment pages on websites should be secure, with a padlock symbol and 'https' in the address bar,
- Pay on a credit card - issuers are jointly liable if the price of a single ticket is more than £100. 

More tips can be found at actionfraud.police.uk/fraud-az-ticket-scam 

If you are a victim of a ticketing scam, report the matter to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040