As the countdown begins for the highly anticipated Lollapalooza festival in Chicago, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning fans to stay vigilant against a surge in ticket-related scams. With the four-day music event set to take over Grant Park from July 31 to August 3, scammers are expected to exploit the urgency of last-minute ticket buyers with fake websites, counterfeit tickets, and fraudulent merchandise.
BBB President and CEO Steve J. Bernas cautioned that scammers prey on emotions and time pressure. He explained that deceptive emails, phony waitlist sites, and fraudulent resellers often lure fans into providing personal and financial information. “Scammers know how to prey on urgency and emotion,” Bernas said. “Don’t let the thrill of scoring tickets blind you to the risks.”
Although some tickets remain available through verified resellers, many categories are sold out or limited to waitlists. Fans desperate to attend may turn to unofficial sources, which is where the danger lies. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist have been flagged as hotspots for ticket scams. Victims can lose hundreds or even thousands of dollars, often discovering the fraud only when they are denied entry at the gate. Fake QR codes and counterfeit e-tickets, which look authentic, are particularly common and almost impossible to detect before the event.
The BBB has also highlighted that scams extend beyond tickets to hotel bookings and vacation rentals during the festival. Fraudsters use fake listings to steal payment and personal details, leaving travelers stranded. The popularity of Lollapalooza makes it a prime target for identity theft and financial fraud.
Common scams to watch out for
Fake ticket websites often advertise tickets at unusually low prices to lure buyers. Once payment is made, no tickets arrive, and the scammers use the stolen credit card information to make expensive purchases.
Fraudsters also duplicate legitimate tickets and sell them to multiple buyers, leading to multiple fans arriving with the same code and being denied entry.
Counterfeit tickets with forged barcodes appear professional but will be rejected at the venue.
Some brokers entice buyers with seemingly better deals, only to tack on excessive hidden fees at checkout.
Tips to avoid Lollapalooza scams
The BBB advises fans to purchase tickets only from the box office or the festival’s official online ticket site. Be wary of imitation sites that can appear first in search results. Always research any company before making a purchase, checking reviews and BBB ratings. Use credit cards for added protection, as they allow chargebacks if the tickets turn out to be fraudulent. Avoid debit cards, wire transfers, and cash, which offer no recourse. Ensure the website is secure, indicated by “HTTPS” and a lock icon in the browser. Finally, know the refund policy and confirm that resellers provide clear terms regarding cancellations.
Lollapalooza 2025 lineup and schedule
The festival kicks off Thursday, July 31, with headliners Tyler, The Creator and Luke Combs, along with performances by Gracie Abrams, Dom Dolla, and Role Model. Friday’s lineup features Olivia Rodrigo, Korn, Djo, and Bleachers. On Saturday, headliners Rüfüs Du Sol and Twice will take the stage, joined by Doechii, Clairo, and Young Miko. The event concludes Sunday with Sabrina Carpenter and A$AP Rocky, supported by Martin Garrix, The Marías, and Dominic Fike.
Performances will begin at noon each day across multiple stages, attracting tens of thousands of music fans. This massive attendance further increases the chances for scammers to exploit unsuspecting attendees.
As Lollapalooza approaches, fans are urged to remain cautious, buy tickets through official channels, and stay alert to fraudulent offers. Following these safety tips can ensure that the focus remains on enjoying the music and unforgettable festival experience rather than dealing with the disappointment of a scam.
