As excitement builds for K-pop sensation Blackpink’s upcoming concerts in Singapore, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) has issued a public advisory to warn fans about the growing threat of online ticket scams. The warning, released on June 12, urges concertgoers to purchase tickets only through Ticketmaster, the official and authorised ticketing platform for the event.
The much-anticipated concerts, part of Blackpink’s Deadline world tour, are set to take place on November 29 and 30 at the Singapore National Stadium. With general ticket sales now live and demand skyrocketing, scammers are seizing the opportunity to exploit eager fans through fraudulent listings and deceptive tactics.
Police Alert: Beware of Fake Tickets on Social Platforms
According to the SPF advisory, scammers are targeting fans through popular online platforms such as Carousell, Telegram, and Xiaohongshu, where they create convincing fake listings using doctored screenshots or videos of “tickets” to lure in victims.
These fraudulent sellers often claim that tickets are in limited supply or that time is running out, pressuring buyers into making quick payments without verifying the authenticity of the seller or the ticket source.
“In many cases, scammers promised to deliver the tickets after receiving payment. However, the victims never received their tickets,” said the police.
The SPF also noted that in some incidents, scammers followed up with additional payment requests, falsely claiming that the initial payment was not received, thereby further deceiving their victims.
A Growing Trend of Concert-Related Scams
The advisory draws attention to a larger pattern of ticketing scams linked to high-profile concerts. In 2023, the police received at least 1,050 reports of scams involving the Taylor Swift concert, with estimated losses totaling over S$658,000 (US$513,000).
As concerts and live entertainment make a strong post-pandemic comeback, scammers are taking advantage of the increasing demand for limited and highly coveted tickets. The SPF emphasized that these scams are not isolated cases but part of a growing trend that continues to affect unsuspecting fans.
Official Ticketing Only Through Ticketmaster
To avoid falling victim to ticket fraud, fans are strongly urged to buy their Blackpink concert tickets exclusively through Ticketmaster, the event’s official ticketing provider. Tickets purchased through third-party platforms, resale marketplaces, or private sellers are considered invalid.
The Singapore Sports Hub has reiterated that individuals holding unauthorised or resale tickets will be denied entry into the venue. No refunds will be provided to those who are turned away.
This firm stance is part of an ongoing effort to ensure fairness, security, and a safe concert-going experience for all attendees.
Why Ticket Scams Are So Prevalent
Several factors contribute to the success of ticket scams, including the urgency created by limited ticket availability and fans’ eagerness to attend rare performances. Scammers use emotionally charged language and urgency cues to manipulate buyers into rushing their decisions.
Blackpink’s global popularity and the relatively few Southeast Asia tour dates only heighten the sense of scarcity and demand. With many tickets already reported as sold out, some fans are likely to turn to unofficial channels, increasing the risk of scams.
How to Stay Safe When Buying Concert Tickets
To avoid falling for a ticketing scam, the SPF recommends the following precautionary steps:
- Always purchase tickets from the official platform, in this case, Ticketmaster.
- Do not trust screenshots or videos of tickets as proof—they are easily fabricated.
- Be wary of sellers who pressure you with claims of limited time or availability.
- Avoid paying via unsecured methods, especially bank transfers or crypto.
- Verify event details and policies on the organiser’s or venue’s official website.
Additionally, fans are encouraged to report suspicious activity to the police or through official cybercrime reporting channels such as www.scamalert.sg or the ScamShield app.
Looking Ahead to Blackpink’s Singapore Concert
Blackpink’s Singapore shows promise to be one of the biggest musical events of the year. With the group’s international Deadline tour already generating massive buzz, the National Stadium will be filled with fans eager to catch their favorite idols live.
To ensure that the concert remains a memorable and positive experience, staying alert and purchasing tickets through the correct channels is essential.
As the SPF advises: “Don’t let scammers ruin your experience. Stay vigilant, and protect yourself and your friends from fraud.”
