Scammers use fake FIFA sites, crypto tokens to target fans

Law enforcement agencies warned that fraudsters are running fake FIFA websites, social media advertisements and counterfeit World Cup cryptocurrency tokens to steal money and personal information from fans.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department posted the alert on social platforms, saying scammers offer bogus World Cup tickets, hospitality packages, merchandise, streaming services and betting promotions that mimic legitimate sellers. The warning comes as U.S., Mexican and Canadian cities prepare to host fans for the 2026 tournament. A report flagged $3.4 billion in cryptocurrency theft in 2025. The FBI Cyber Division has also warned about phishing campaigns that use lookalike domains to harvest personal and financial data.

Authorities described techniques used by criminals: creating convincing ticketing pages and sponsored-looking ads on social platforms, then steering buyers to payment methods that are hard or impossible to reverse. Artificial intelligence tools are being used to quickly copy brand visuals and spin up phishing sites designed to capture login details, credit card numbers and other sensitive information.

The Sheriff’s Department advised caution for sellers requesting payment through cryptocurrency, wire transfer, peer-to-peer payment apps or gift cards. The department wrote, “Be cautious of sellers requesting payment through cryptocurrency, wire transfer, peer-to-peer payment apps, gift cards, or other methods that are difficult to reverse.” It added, “Do not trust screenshots, PDFs, or ‘paper tickets’ offered by private sellers.” Residents were told to type the official FIFA website address into their browser rather than click links in ads, social posts, text messages or messaging apps.

Cybersecurity firm findings show fake token projects using World Cup imagery to promote unlicensed crypto offerings. One site marketed a token as “the official community token celebrating the FIFA World Cup 2026,” advertising large token supplies and giveaways. The firm noted that none of the sites it examined are connected to FIFA and that official partners for 2026 are documented and verifiable.

Regulators in the United Kingdom have also contacted football clubs about partnerships with unauthorized crypto businesses and trading platforms, warning such deals could breach financial services laws and expose fans to risk.

Officials urged anyone targeted to refuse requests for cryptocurrency payment, contact their bank immediately if financial information is exposed, keep copies of communications and transaction receipts, and report incidents to local law enforcement and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Buyers were advised to verify sellers through official channels and treat unusually cheap or urgent offers with suspicion.