Taylor Swift fans issued with major warning ahead of Eras Tour concerts

Taylor Swift fans have been issued a warning about potential scams as the global superstar prepares to arrive in the UK for her Eras Tour. Thousands are expected to descend on Edinburgh, Cardiff, Liverpool and London for her performances.

High demand for last-minute tickets from those who missed out on the general sale has led to a surge in fraudulent activity. According to a report by Nationwide, fans of The Tortured Poets Department singer are particularly vulnerable to scammers looking to exploit their eagerness to see their favourite artist live.

The study revealed that The Eras Tour is the event most likely to be targeted by fraudsters, even more so than the Euros, Wimbledon or Glastonbury. Fake tickets that won't grant entry to the venue are the primary method used by these unscrupulous individuals to make a profit, reports Wales Online.

READ MORE: Coronation Street's Helen Worth quitting soap as Gail Platt star explains decision

READ MORE: ITV Coronation Street's Tina O'Brien sends tearful tribute after Gail Platt's star shock exit

The research found that over a quarter (28%) of these ticket scams originate on social media, with Facebook Marketplace being responsible for 26%. This is followed by personal email (22%), eBay (17%), illegitimate websites (12%), Vinted (12%), Reddit (10%) and Depop (9%).

Swifties are urged to remain vigilant when attempting to secure last-minute tickets. There are several strategies that can help you identify a scammer before they manage to take your hard-earned money

Tips for staying safe when buying event tickets:

• Use official websites: It’s always best to book through official sellers that are members of the self-regulatory body of the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR).

• Check for any subtle changes to the website URLs of any genuine organisations: Criminals create fake websites to advertise fake tickets. Always look for a padlock symbol in the address bar.

• Check with the event organiser, promoter or venue how tickets are being sold and distributed. Check the event website to confirm if tickets can be resold.

• Beware adverts or individuals selling tickets for events that have sold out or haven’t officially gone on sale.

• Wherever possible, pay through the website using your debit or credit card as they offer more protection. Don’t pay by bank transfer.

• Be suspicious of tickets offered on social media or if you’re contacted by text, email or direct message

Jim Winters, Nationwide's director of economic crime, has issued a stark warning to festival-goers this summer: "We want everyone to enjoy their summer, which is why we want to remind anyone going to a festival or event to double check that what they are buying is the real deal. Taking time out might seem like going to the back of the queue but if you see an offer that is too good to be true, it probably is."

He also highlighted the building society's commitment to customer safety with its Scam Checker Service: "It is why we offer a Scam Checker Service that protects purchases, as customers can check in with us before they check out. And if we give the go ahead for a payment and a scam takes place, we will fully refund the amount lost."