Is Viagogo Legit? A Guide to Safe Ticket Buying
Understanding Viagogo
What is Viagogo?
Viagogo is a global online ticket exchange platform that allows people to buy and sell tickets for live events. This includes concerts, sports events, theater shows, and more. Established in 2006, Viagogo operates as a secondary ticket marketplace, meaning it facilitates the resale of tickets originally purchased from official sellers.
How Viagogo Works
Buying Tickets
Buying tickets on Viagogo is straightforward. Users search for the event they are interested in, select their desired tickets, and proceed to checkout. Viagogo offers a “Fan Protection Guarantee” which promises that buyers will receive valid tickets in time for their event. If any issues arise, Viagogo pledges to provide comparable replacement tickets or offer a full refund.
To purchase tickets:
- Search for the event: Use the search bar to find the event you’re interested in.
- Select tickets: Choose from the available listings, paying attention to seat location, price, and seller ratings.
- Proceed to checkout: Enter your payment details and complete the purchase.
Selling Tickets
Selling tickets on Viagogo is also simple. Sellers list their tickets by providing details such as event name, date, seat location, and price. Viagogo handles the transaction and ensures that sellers get paid after the event has taken place, provided there are no disputes from the buyers.
To sell tickets:
- List your tickets: Provide accurate details about your tickets.
- Set your price: Choose a competitive price based on current market trends.
- Wait for a buyer: Once your tickets are sold, you’ll receive payment after the event.
Customer Experiences
Positive Reviews
Many users have had positive experiences with Viagogo, praising the platform for its wide range of available tickets and user-friendly interface. Successful transactions and satisfied customers highlight the effectiveness of the platform’s guarantees.
Negative Reviews
Despite positive feedback, there are numerous complaints about Viagogo. Common issues include:
- High Fees: Viagogo’s service fees can be substantial, sometimes exceeding 30% of the ticket price. Additionally, hidden fees often appear only at checkout.
- Customer Service: Many users report poor customer service, with slow responses and unresolved issues.
- Invalid Tickets: Some customers receive invalid or fraudulent tickets, leading to missed events and dissatisfaction.
Safety and Security
Scams and Risks
The risk of scams and fake tickets is a major concern on Viagogo. While the platform employs security measures like McAfee Secure to protect transactions, buyers should remain cautious. Viagogo’s open marketplace model allows sellers to list tickets at any price, sometimes leading to inflated prices and fraudulent listings.
Buyer Protection
Viagogo’s Fan Protection Guarantee aims to safeguard buyers. If tickets are invalid or do not arrive, Viagogo promises a full refund or replacement tickets. However, the effectiveness of this guarantee is debated, with some users struggling to receive refunds despite valid claims.
Pricing and Fees
Ticket Prices
Ticket prices on Viagogo are determined by market demand. During high-demand events, prices can soar above face value. Conversely, less popular events may see tickets sold at or below original prices.
Fees and Charges
Viagogo charges significant service and booking fees, which can surprise buyers at checkout. These fees cover the platform’s operational costs but can make the final ticket price much higher than initially anticipated.
Legal Issues and Controversies
Legal Actions
Viagogo has faced multiple legal challenges globally. Notable cases include:
- Australia: Fined $7 million in 2020 for misleading advertising and hidden fees.
- France: Sued by UEFA Euro Cup in 2016 for unauthorized ticket sales.
- Germany: Faced injunctions over ticket sales for major events like the FIFA World Cup.
These legal issues highlight the platform’s controversial practices and have led to increased scrutiny and regulatory actions.
Public Perception
Public perception of Viagogo is mixed. While some users appreciate the convenience of the platform, others criticize it for enabling price gouging and selling fraudulent tickets. High-profile controversies, such as lawsuits from artists like Ed Sheeran, further tarnish its reputation.
Tips for Using Viagogo
For Buyers
- Verify Ticket Authenticity: Research the seller and check for any red flags before purchasing.
- Budget for Fees: Be aware of Viagogo’s service fees and include them in your budget.
- Buy Early: Purchase tickets well in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes.
For Sellers
- Provide Accurate Details: Ensure all ticket information is accurate to avoid disputes.
- Set Competitive Prices: Research market trends to set a fair price.
- Be Responsive: Respond promptly to any buyer inquiries or issues.
Alternatives to Viagogo
Other Ticket Platforms
There are several alternatives to Viagogo, each with its own pros and cons:
- StubHub: Known for its user-friendly interface and solid buyer protection.
- Ticketmaster: Offers a reliable primary market but limited resale options.
- SeatGeek: Provides a comprehensive view of available tickets from multiple sources.
Official Sources
Buying directly from event organizers or official vendors can often be safer and cheaper. Official sources typically offer tickets at face value and include direct customer support.
The Bottom Lines
So, is Viagogo legit? The answer depends on your perspective. As a legal business entity, Viagogo operates within the confines of local resale regulations. Millions of transactions have been successfully completed through the platform, with many satisfied customers. However, the significant number of negative reviews, high fees, and legal controversies cannot be ignored.
If you choose to use Viagogo, exercise caution. Verify sellers, budget for fees, and familiarize yourself with the platform’s guarantees and refund policies. For those seeking a more reliable experience, exploring alternative ticket platforms or purchasing directly from official sources may be the best approach.
