‘Despicable’: Police forced to issue Newcastle United fan message ahead of Carabao Cup final

Police have been forced to send a message to Newcastle United fans as fraud levels surrounding Carabao Cup final tickets reached a 'despicable' level.

Northumbria Police are urging fans to remain vigilant after reports of fraudsters selling fake Carabao Cup final tickets online.

Tickets for the eagerly-anticipated final between Newcastle United and Manchester United, taking place at Wembley Stadium on February 26, are now on sale to groups of supporters. Tickets are being sold in waves in a system that has been labelled as ‘fair’ by the Newcastle United Supporters Trust.

Since Saturday, when the first batch of tickets were released to Newcastle fans, police have been made aware of a handful of reports made to Action Fraud alleging fraudsters have been selling fake seats on social media and online.

Enquiries are ongoing into the reports – and police are today encouraging fans to exercise caution when buying tickets via non-official channels.

Detective Inspector Phil Thoburn, of Northumbria Police, said: “We are aware that some football fans have already fallen victim to scams on social media and websites, with fraudsters encouraging payment upfront with a promise that tickets will be provided ahead of the game by post or in person.

“Sadly, many of these tickets have not materialised and a number of reports have been subsequently made to Action Fraud. Let me be clear, these people are despicable and are preying on those who are looking forward to enjoying the big game and trying every avenue to secure tickets.

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“Please do not pay strangers for tickets – as it is highly likely to be a scam. We urge fans to be vigilant and not to part with money to these fake sellers

“Please buy from official ticket-selling outlets, where possible. If you are in any doubt, please walk away and report it.”

If you think you might have been a victim of fraud, police ask you to contact Action Fraud immediately by calling 0300 123 2040 Monday to Friday 8 am-8 pm. If you are calling from abroad, you are asked call +44 300 123 2040.