Authorities have arrested two individuals accused of planning a large-scale ticket scam linked to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. The suspects allegedly exploited a security loophole to steal nearly 900 digital tickets, reselling them for massive profits. Now, many are eager to know what happened.
Here are more details about the same.
2 hackers arrested over Taylor Swift ticket scam, claims report
Two individuals from New York have been arrested for allegedly hacking and reselling nearly 900 concert tickets, including those for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, making over $600,000. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced the arrests on Thursday, stating that the suspects exploited the high demand for tickets to Swift, Ed Sheeran, and Adele concerts, among other events. They have been charged with grand larceny, computer tampering, and conspiracy.
According to Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, the suspects exploited a security flaw in an offshore ticket vendor’s system. Two insiders at a third-party company linked to StubHub allegedly stole ticket URLs and passed them to their associates in Queens, who then resold the tickets at inflated prices. Katz said, “According to the charges, these defendants tried to use the popularity of Taylor Swift’s concert tour and other high-profile events to profit at the expense of others.” (via Deadline)
The accused, Tyrone Rose and Shamara P. Simmons, now face charges including second-degree grand larceny, first-degree computer tampering, and fourth-degree conspiracy. They could face sentences ranging from three to 15 years in prison if convicted. Authorities continue to investigate the extent of the operation and potentially more conspirators.
StubHub responded by stating that they immediately reported the fraudulent activity to Sutherland Global Services (SGS), their third-party customer service provider. They also claimed that they worked with law enforcement to address the issue. They shared, “At StubHub, ensuring a safe and secure platform for our fans is our highest priority.” (via Variety)
