Super Bowl Scams Are Everywhere This Year—Here’s How to Outsmart Fraudsters and Stay Safe
From fake tickets to QR code traps, scammers are targeting fans—but you can outsmart them easily
With Super Bowl LX just around the corner, advertisements, engaging social media posts and giveaways are popping up everywhere—often offering impressive deals. But here’s what you need to know: Some of those too-good-to-be-true deals may actually be a scam.
“Big events like the Super Bowl create a perfect storm for scammers because people are excited, distracted and moving quickly,” explains Ron Kerbs, CEO of Kidas, an online scam protection company.
The good news: You can outsmart them easily with a few simple tips. Below, we break down the most common Super Bowl scams circulating right now—plus the exact red flags to watch for and simple steps to protect yourself. Consider this your game day safety playbook!
2026 Super Bowl scams that should be on your radar
So what exactly are these scammers up to? Let’s walk through the biggest threats you need to know about right now.
Counterfeit ticket scams are targeting desperate fans
With tickets to the big game in high demand, it creates the perfect opportunity for scammers to offer last-minute admission—often at a mark-up. The problem is so widespread that California Attorney General Rob Bonta has been warning consumers to be extra careful when buying tickets online, as it makes it easier than ever for scammers to steal payment information.
Even if you find a seller on verified platforms like StubHub or Ticketmaster, the fraudster may insist you pay using another method like Venmo or Zelle. In order to make it more enticing, they’ll usually promise you a better deal. The reality: They want to make it harder to dispute the charges when you realize you’ve been scammed.
If you plan on heading to Levi Stadium before the game, you’ll also want to keep your eyes out for scalpers. Not only is it considered a misdemeanor in the state of California, but you risk suffering a financial loss as a result of buying what is certainly a fake ticket.
QR code traps are popping up
“We’re also seeing a rise in QR code scams at bars, watch parties and even parking lots—people scan a code thinking it’s for a drink menu or contest, but it actually leads to a fake website designed to steal personal or payment information,” says Kerbs.
This is also known as quishing (QR phishing) and is a type of phishing attack. Most often, these QR codes are linked to malicious websites meant to steal sensitive data. But sometimes, scanning that fake code can allow the criminal to install malware or other dangerous software that infects your device. This typically leads to a data breach or a locking of your device unless you pay a “ransom.”
Fake sweepstakes promises
From food deals to giveaways, companies love offering special promotions in honor of the Super Bowl. Unfortunately, bad actors know how common these sweepstakes are, so they create their own phony promotions as a way to steal money, personal information or both.
In some cases they’ll advertise exclusive contests that include VIP experiences, but you must pay a small fee first to enter. Other fraudsters may create ads that claim you’ve won free Super Bowl merchandise—all you need to supply is your shipping information or a processing fee.
Last year, scammers targeted Americans via sponsored TikTok and Facebook videos. As part of the scheme, ads for a “Pre-Super Bowl Rewards Hack” claimed Amazon was giving away $700 or $750 gift cards, but it turned out to be a simple phishing ploy.
Phony betting sites
Another scam to watch for this week? “Fake sports betting offers that promise ‘guaranteed wins,’ advises Kerbs.
Often these take the form of new platforms designed to lure in potential customers, but sometimes they are just fake versions of online sportsbooks that are meant to look legitimate. Once you sign up or login, the attackers can use the information to drain your financial accounts or commit identity theft.
Red flags that signal you’re being scammed
With Super Bowl-related scams so common, it’s important to keep your eyes out for the warning signs that you’re being targeted.
“Urgency is one of the biggest red flags,” shares Kerbs. “Scammers often pressure people to act fast with messages like ‘last chance before kickoff’ or ‘offer expires in 10 minutes.’”
Another indication that something is a scam: Being asked to click a link or scan a QR code—both typical in phishing attempts. Similarly, watch for requests for payments via apps, gift cards or crypto as fraudsters want to get your money fast in a manner that’s nearly untraceable.
“Poor grammar, unfamiliar sender information or messages that don’t quite match the branding of a sportsbook, team or retailer are also common clues,” he adds. “If a message or offer shows up unexpectedly, especially by text, and asks for personal or financial information, it’s smart to pause before engaging.”
Your game plan for outsmarting scammers
Whether you’re planning to watch this year’s game at home or at the stadium, you have the power to outsmart scammers and ensure you have a pleasant experience.
“The best defense is slowing down and verifying before you click, scan or pay,” suggests Kerbs. “Only buy tickets, place bets or enter promotions through official websites and apps you trust. Be cautious with QR codes in public places unless you’re confident they’re legitimate, and never share one-time passcodes or account details with anyone.”
The bottom line: Trust your gut and don’t be afraid to take time to research a promotion, website or seller.
“Scammers rely on distraction and pressure—staying alert, even during a big celebration, goes a long way in keeping you safe,” assures Kerbs.
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