Steer clear of scammers trying to black-flag your Indy 500 experience, Attorney General Todd Rokita warns

As race fans try to chase down last-minute bargains on Indy 500 tickets, Attorney General Todd Rokita is warning them to take precautions to avoid spinning right into the path of scammers.
 
“Con artists are getting more sophisticated by the day,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Even veteran track-goers should take time to review some basic safeguards before purchasing tickets, paying for parking, or making online reservations. No one wants the big day to arrive only to get turned away because you got duped by a fraudster.”

Tickets are available in both digital and paper formats, with digital tickets the recommended, most secure choice. Official paper tickets are printed on thick card-stock material. Many counterfeit passes and tickets appear to be authentic, but Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) staffers are trained to spot fakes.

Attorney General Rokita offers the following tips to avoid scams during this year’s race activities:    

• Remember that if deals sound too good to be true, they usually are.    

• Purchase items directly from IMS whenever possible.    

• Consider your source. Know the difference between a professional ticket broker (a legitimate and accredited reseller), a ticket scalper (an unregulated and unlicensed ticket seller), and a scammer selling scam tickets.  

• Know the refund policy. You should only purchase tickets from a ticket reseller that provides clear details about the terms of the transaction.   

• Use payment methods that come with protection. Always use a credit card so you may have some recourse if the tickets are not as promised.  

• Call ahead or confirm hotel reservations directly.   

• Check the reviews for the hotel or wherever you’re staying.   

• Look for warning signs, like prices that seem a little too low or website addresses that seem odd.  

• Get email confirmations for all reservations and tickets.   

• Be mindful of QR codes, which can be placed by scammers to enable them to gain access to electronic devices.  

• Be wary of online accounts that do not use multi-factor authentication.   

Hoosiers are encouraged to contact the Office of the Indiana Attorney General to report any suspected scams or scam attempts. You can file a complaint by visiting indianaconsumer.com or by calling 1-800-382-5516.