Mexico - Profeco recommends caution to be wary of scam 2010 FIFA World Cup Ticket and Packages Offers

The Consumer Protection Federal Agency (Profeco, by its initials in Spanish language) of Mexico is working with consumer protection agencies around the world who are members of the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN) in scanning the Internet for unauthorized websites and online scams that offer tickets as the next official 2010 FIFA World Cup ticketing draw commences.

The measures were announced by Antonio Morales de la Pena, Federal Consumer Attorney of Mexico, who said that on 5th December 2009 is the launch of the third phase of the World Cup tickets according to information from FIFA. "For this reason - Mr Morales said - it is necessary that consumers be aware of the fake websites". He recommended consumers to verify the veracity of these sites before making a purchase.

Many fraudulent websites try to convince consumers that they are in the position to offer on the Internet tickets for  the event. Many fraudsters have sophisticated sites that may use official logos and images - some even use "FIFA" in their web address, offering tickets at lower prices than the official ones.

Morales de la Pena said: "The global nature of the Internet makes it easy for fraudsters to target consumers across borders. This makes international cooperation critical to identify these sites, warn consumers, and close down scam activity".

It is recommended to be wary of false websites and fraudulent e-mails, particularly when those sites request additional payments or personal information in advance to secure tickets. Some of them falsely claim to be a part of FIFA lottery, prize draw or competition.

ICPEN in an informal network of consumer protection law enforcement authorities from over 40 economies and representatives of the European Commission and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Profeco is a member of this network since 1994. The Network aims to share information about cross-border activities that may affect consumer interests and encourage international cooperation among law enforcement agencies.

FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke welcomed action by the global Network to crack down on fraudster. He said: "We really appreciate the initiaitve of ICPEN in protecting consumers from unauthorized sales of 2010 FIFA World Cup tickets. We all have a common aim of protecting fans who simply want to enjoy the pinnacle event of their favourite sport".

In this matter, Mr Morales de la Pena said that "consumers need to be aware that the only legitimate online source, if they wish to purchase tickets, is  www.FIFA.com. If consumers wish to deal with travel agencies, they should only use authorized tour operators which are listed on the official FIFA wensite for each country".

Therefore, Profeco provides some recommendations that consumers should consider before purchasing a ticket on the Internet for 2010 FIFA World Cup in order to avoid being victims of scams.

• Be aware of how and when tickets for the event are being distributed by checking with the event organizer, promoter or venue where the event will be held.

• Check with the official FIFA World Cup site that ticket package you are looking to buy are from authorized tocket sellers. To ensure 2010 FIFA World Cup Tickets and tour packages are from official sales channel, please go to:

www.fifa.com/worldcup/organisation/ticketing/authorisedticket.html

• Check the terms and conditions for collecting tickets (or their look-a-likes) of the event can be used to lure customers into thinking the site is official and they are an authorized seller.
• Be wary of sites that say the "guarantee" tickets.
• What are others saing about the website? Search the Internet to find out what other people's experiences have been.
• Always print out a copy of your order and a copy of the acknowledgement you should receive from the authirized operator.
• Remeber that tickets which originate from unauthorized sources are not valid and may result in the bearer not being let in 2010 FIFA Wolrd Cup matches.

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