Enabling industrial-scale touting, highly sophisticated ticket bots are promulgating the widespread issue of ticket resale at exorbitant prices. Examples include tickets for major sporting events, such as Arsenal vs. Chelsea and the Six Nations, being resold at up to 1000% markups.
The rise of bots has transformed the ticket-touting industry, making it harder for genuine fans to buy tickets at face value. These bots automatically purchase large quantities of tickets and even scan for resale opportunities, allowing touts to dominate the market. Some touts even list tickets before they officially go on sale.
The Rugby Football Union has warned fans against buying inflated resale tickets, threatening penalties such as cancellations and membership suspensions. Many fans have also reported cases of fraudulent tickets or last-minute cancellations, leading to frustration and financial loss.
Promoter Barry Hearn warns that the problem has escalated beyond traditional street-corner touting, with organized internet hacking teams profiting significantly.
Viagogo, a major secondary ticket marketplace, defends its role by stating that it provides a regulated and secure platform for buyers and sellers. It argues that resale offers flexibility and that restrictions from event organizers limit fan choice. The company claims to remove speculative listings and ensures sellers are only paid once buyers access the event.
Despite these claims, industry insiders argue that the system overwhelmingly favors bots and touts, making it increasingly difficult for fans to secure tickets at fair prices.
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