Super Bowl LIX Scams: How Hackers Target Fans and How to Stay Safe

Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson says the Super Bowl's huge audience makes it a prime target for many types of cybersecurity scams.

prativad prativad
Feb 5, 2025 - 13:10 Updated: Feb 5, 2025 - 13:17
Super Bowl LIX Scams: How Hackers Target Fans and How to Stay Safe

Super Bowl LIX, set to take place this Sunday at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, is expected to draw a record-breaking 116.8 million viewers. While the excitement builds, cybercriminals are also gearing up to exploit unsuspecting fans. Here’s how they target you and how to protect yourself.

Common Super Bowl Scams

  1. Fake Ticket Scams – Hackers use phishing emails and fake websites to sell counterfeit tickets. These scams often involve last-minute deals or huge discounts, luring victims into paying for tickets that don’t exist.
  2. Fraudulent Contests & Raffles – Scammers promise VIP access or free tickets in exchange for a small "entry fee." These fake giveaways play on the fear of missing out (FOMO).
  3. Social Media Scams – Criminals use hashtags like #SuperBowlTickets to find fans searching for tickets. They send messages directing users to scam payment platforms like Cash App, Venmo, or Zelle.
  4. Fake Merch & Freebies – If an ad offers free Super Bowl gear for a "small shipping fee," it’s likely a scam. These fake promotions steal personal and financial details.
  5. AI-Powered Social Engineering – Scammers use bots to target posts where users mention buying tickets, then pressure them into fast transactions with emotional appeals like a "family emergency."

How to Stay Safe

  1. Buy from Official Sources – Use verified sites like Ticketmaster, StubHub, or SeatGeek. Avoid third-party sellers demanding deposits.
  2. Avoid Phishing Attacks – Verify all emails and links before clicking. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
  3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Secure your ticketing and payment accounts with an extra layer of protection.
  4. Update Your Devices – Keep your phone and apps updated to protect against malware and phishing attempts.
  5. Be Cautious of QR Codes – Only scan codes from official sources. Scammers use malicious QR codes to steal data.
  6. Watch for Social Engineering Tactics – If a seller pressures you to act fast or offers unrealistic discounts, be skeptical.
  7. Check Seller Histories – Scammers often claim to be selling tickets to multiple events at once—a red flag for fraud.
  8. Verify Proof of Purchase – Fake receipts can be easily photoshopped. Always cross-check with the ticket provider.

Final Warning

Cybercriminals rely on Super Bowl hype to trick fans into rushed decisions. If something feels off, take a step back and verify before making any payments. Stay smart, stay safe, and enjoy the game! ????

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