Rugby fans warned not to be let down by scam Rugby World Cup 2011 ticket offer

ICPEN wants to help consumers avoid falling victim to fraudulent and deceptive ticket sales for the Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011) in New Zealand. ICPEN can achieve this through coordinating the release of national media releases by all its members (the national consumer protection agencies) and has created a template media release for its members. The national consumer protection agencies remain responsible for the content and issuing of the national media release in their jurisdiction. The release was drafted in close cooperation with the International Rugby Board, organisers of RWC 2011.

The national consumer protection agencies will remain vigilant during the entire period of ticket sales in order to prevent scams and other illegal activities taking place. ICPEN will coordinate the cooperation among these agencies in combating the fraudsters. If you do encounter deceptive activities, please report them to your country's consumer protection agency.

Here are some tips from ICPEN agencies when looking to purchase tickets online:

• Be aware of how and when tickets for the event are being distributed by checking with the event organiser, promoter or venue where the event will be held.
• Check the terms and conditions for collecting tickets to ensure it uses the official Rugby World Cup 2011 collection process.
• Be aware that the official logo and trademarks (or their look-a-likes) of the event can be used to lure customers into thinking the site is official and they are an authorised seller.
• Be wary of sites that say they 'guarantee' tickets.
• What are others saying about the website? Search the internet to find out what other people's experiences have been.
• Always print out a copy of your order and a copy of the acknowledgement you should receive when you place your order.