One month before the World Cup, scammers are already targeting fans: here’s what to watch out for

Kaspersky warns that fraudsters are already exploiting FIFA World Cup hype in Mexico, US and Canada
Fake ticketing, accommodation and transportation apps trick fans into sharing credentials or losing money; The dark web offers fake “discounted” travel and match tickets
Criminals also target companies with fake partnerships with airlines; experts urge fans to use official platforms and companies to strengthen email security and train staff against phishing

We are less than a month away from the biggest sporting event of the year, the FIFA World Cup, and scammers are already busy stealing money, passwords and other sensitive data from fans and visitors, experts have warned.

Kaspersky has published an analysis of the different scam techniques used by cybercriminals to target football fans as they prepare to travel to the host countries: Mexico, the United States and Canada.

The report shows that fraudsters are targeting fans looking to rent accommodation, as well as those looking to buy tickets to matches. They also attempt to steal money and data from people looking for transportation options to and from stadiums.

How to stay safe

In fact, Kaspersky discovered a spoofed version of a well-known transportation app targeting users in Mexico. This fake app comes with an invitation to “claim prizes,” which only encourages users to share their login credentials.

Researchers also found deals on the dark web, for things like plane tickets, hotel reservations and match tickets, that are 20% cheaper than the original price.

Obviously, this is all false and people not only risk losing their money, but they also risk not being able to access the stadiums.

In addition to targeting fans and tourists, criminals also target businesses. Kaspersky said it saw someone posing as a representative of a well-known airline, offering fake business partnerships for things like contractors and suppliers.

Those who take the bait are ultimately asked to pay a “deposit” and be given a “priority position” in a non-existent partner selection list.

As we get closer to the start date, the number of these scams will only increase. Kaspersky suggests fans always check the authenticity of websites before entering personal data and always choose official and reputable ticketing platforms.

Business owners, on the other hand, should secure their business email, train their employees on the dangers of phishing, and use cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions.