Big events, big risks: How to spot World Cup scams before they catch you

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming, and so are the scammers. With fans from all over the world planning trips to the U. S. , Canada, and Mexico, criminals see dollar signs in the chaos. While the tournament promises fun and excitement, authorities warn that fake ticket websites, bogus travel deals, and shady job offers are already popping up online. Some of these scams are sneaky—just a single letter change in a website’s address can trick people into handing over personal details or money.But it’s not just online tricks they need to worry about. Big crowds mean big chances for crimes like theft and human trafficking. Cities hosting matches are stepping up patrols, but experts say the real issue isn’t just crime—it’s criminals taking advantage of busy places where people might not notice what’s happening. Hotels, rideshares, and even restaurants could become spots where exploitation goes unnoticed unless workers know what to look for. There’s also a myth floating around: that big sporting events automatically mean more human trafficking. The truth is more complicated. While police and activists do increase awareness during big events, studies show the link between the World Cup and trafficking isn’t straightforward. Still, the crowd surge gives criminals more chances to target vulnerable people, so staying alert matters more than ever.