Cyber Scams Spike as March Madness Frenzy Unfolds

Cyber Scams Spike as March Madness Frenzy Unfolds

Scammers join the crowd

March Madness draws millions of basketball fans into brackets, bets and watch parties. Cybercriminals follow. The annual tournament gives scammers plenty of chances to exploit fans’ excitement, and the busiest weeks of the tournament are also the busiest weeks for fake ticket sites and betting scams.

Fans search online for scores, tickets and merchandise, and scammers are ready for them. One click on the wrong link can be enough.

Common scams

Fake tickets and merchandise

Fake ticket sales are a common scheme. Scammers set up convincing websites that offer discounted tickets or seats at sold-out games. Once the buyer pays, the tickets are fake.

Fake merchandise stores also appear, offering exclusive or collectible items. These storefronts look credible but disappear once orders are paid for, and buyers lose their money.

Phishing

Phishing is another common tactic. Emails pretending to come from tournament organizers or well-known sports brands trick people into clicking malicious links that install malware or lead to sites built to steal personal and financial information.

If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

How fans can protect themselves

Basic security habits cut the risk. Keep antivirus software up to date. Use multi-factor authentication on email and financial accounts.

Check official event websites and verified social media accounts to tell real offers from fake ones.

What experts say

WABE spoke with Victor Wieczorek, senior vice president of offensive security at GuidePoint Security, who said March Madness makes fans a prime target for scammers. The Better Business Bureau has also warned about realistic-looking fake websites and apps tied to sports betting and tickets.

The advice is simple: check the source before you click, buy or bet.

Looking ahead

As March Madness grows, scams will grow with it. Organizers can help by treating security as part of event planning and marketing.

Organizers and fans both have a part in keeping the tournament safe.

Fans who stay careful can enjoy March Madness without getting scammed.

John King, CISSP, PMP, CISM

John King currently works in the greater Los Angeles area as a ISSO (Information Systems Security Officer). John has a passion for learning and developing his cyber security skills through education, hands on work, and studying for IT certifications.