By Mushfi 
Viagogo, established in 2006, has become one of the largest online ticket resale platforms globally. It facilitates millions of ticket transactions for events ranging from concerts and sports games to theater performances and festivals. However, despite its broad presence, Viagogo has attracted significant controversy, with many customers questioning its legitimacy and reliability.
In this article, we’ll explore whether Viagogo is a trustworthy service by examining user experiences, reviews, legal challenges, and more. By the end, you should have a clearer picture of how the platform works and whether it’s safe to use for buying or selling tickets.
What is Viagogo?
Viagogo is an online marketplace that allows individuals to buy and sell tickets to various events. Similar to other reselling platforms like StubHub, Ticketmaster Resale, and SeatGeek, Viagogo primarily serves the secondary ticket market, where individuals sell tickets they no longer need—whether due to personal circumstances, cancellations, or other reasons. This sets it apart from primary ticket sellers that are directly affiliated with event organizers.
How Does Viagogo Work?
Viagogo operates as an intermediary, connecting ticket sellers with potential buyers. Here’s how the process generally unfolds:
Sellers List Tickets: Individuals who have tickets to an event but no longer need them can list these tickets for sale on Viagogo.
Buyers Browse and Purchase: Prospective buyers can browse available tickets for specific events and make a purchase.
Payment and Delivery: After a purchase is made, Viagogo processes the payment and ensures the tickets are delivered to the buyer.
Viagogo earns revenue by taking a commission on each sale, which can vary depending on the transaction.
What Do Reviews Say About Viagogo?
When evaluating whether Viagogo is legitimate, it’s helpful to consider what customers are saying. There’s a mix of positive and negative feedback surrounding the platform.
Positive Feedback: Access and Convenience
Some users report positive experiences, particularly when seeking tickets to sold-out or high-demand events. Viagogo has been praised for providing access to tickets that might not be available through primary ticket vendors, especially for popular concerts and sporting events. The platform’s broad selection has made it a convenient option for many ticket buyers.
Moreover, Viagogo offers a buyer protection guarantee. This means that if a buyer receives invalid tickets, they are entitled to a refund, which can provide reassurance, especially when dealing with third-party sellers.
Negative Feedback: Hidden Fees and Poor Customer Service
On the other hand, a significant portion of users have voiced dissatisfaction with Viagogo, especially due to hidden fees, inflated prices, and customer service issues. Many buyers complain that the final price they pay is far higher than the initially advertised cost, with service charges and other fees often adding up to 50% or more of the ticket’s face value. This lack of transparency is a common point of frustration.
Another frequent issue is slow and unhelpful customer service. Many users have encountered difficulties when trying to get refunds or resolve problems with undelivered, incorrect, or canceled tickets. These customer service issues can make resolving problems a time-consuming and frustrating experience.
Are Viagogo Tickets Authentic?
A primary concern for buyers is whether the tickets purchased through Viagogo are legitimate and valid for entry. While Viagogo claims to vet sellers and provide buyer protection, there have been reports of counterfeit or invalid tickets being sold through the platform. Some buyers have experienced issues with tickets being rejected at the event, leading to frustration.
Despite these concerns, Viagogo’s buyer guarantee offers a degree of protection. If a buyer receives invalid tickets, they are promised a refund or a replacement, provided the situation meets the terms of the guarantee. Still, instances of ticket issues and inconsistencies in what is delivered versus what was advertised have been reported.
Viagogo’s Pricing Model and Scalping Concerns
As a secondary market platform, Viagogo’s pricing structure can vary significantly. Ticket prices are often marked up based on demand, with some tickets being resold for multiple times their original price. This practice has sparked criticism, particularly from fans who feel that ticket resellers exploit high demand to make a profit at the expense of genuine event-goers.
Ticket scalping—where tickets are resold for much higher prices than their face value—is a common criticism leveled at Viagogo. Some argue that this practice contributes to making live events less affordable and accessible to the general public. Event organizers have also raised concerns about ticket scalping, with some attempting to limit resale prices or impose caps on ticket markups.
Legal Issues and Regulatory Scrutiny
Viagogo has faced numerous legal challenges and regulatory inquiries over the years, adding to concerns about its legitimacy.
Unfair Trading Practices: Viagogo has been investigated in multiple countries for engaging in unfair trading practices. In the UK, for example, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) took action against Viagogo for misleading advertising and failing to comply with consumer protection laws. Among the issues identified were hidden fees and a lack of clear pricing information.
Ticket Resale Laws: In some regions, Viagogo has been accused of circumventing laws aimed at preventing ticket scalping. Certain jurisdictions have laws that place restrictions on the resale of tickets above face value, but Viagogo has been criticized for allowing such resales despite these legal limitations.
Ongoing Legal Disputes: Viagogo has also faced several lawsuits from both buyers and event organizers. For example, in 2018, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) took the platform to court for false advertising, part of a broader effort to hold Viagogo accountable for its business practices.
How to Safely Use Viagogo
While Viagogo is a legitimate platform, there are steps you can take to avoid common issues:
Check the Total Price: Always verify the total cost before completing your purchase. Be aware of hidden fees, which can significantly inflate the price.
Confirm Event Details: Make sure you’re purchasing tickets for the correct event, date, and location. Viagogo’s listings can sometimes be unclear, so double-checking is important.
Research Sellers: Take time to read seller reviews and ratings before purchasing tickets. Some sellers have better reputations than others.
Understand the Guarantee: Familiarize yourself with Viagogo’s buyer protection policies. If you run into issues, such as invalid tickets or canceled events, knowing your rights can help you navigate potential problems.
Final Thoughts: Is Viagogo Trustworthy?
Viagogo’s legitimacy depends on how you weigh its pros and cons. As a widely recognized platform, it does provide access to a broad range of tickets, including those for sold-out or in-demand events. The buyer protection guarantee adds a layer of security for those concerned about ticket authenticity.
However, the platform has faced ongoing criticism for its high fees, lack of transparency, and inconsistent customer service. Legal challenges and regulatory scrutiny have also raised questions about its practices, especially concerning ticket scalping and pricing transparency.
If you choose to use Viagogo, it’s crucial to be vigilant. Review the total cost before purchasing, read seller reviews, and familiarize yourself with Viagogo’s guarantees. If you’re looking for a more transparent and customer-friendly option, you might want to explore other ticket resale platforms that have stronger reputations for price fairness and customer support.
In summary, while Viagogo is a legitimate platform, buyers should exercise caution and be aware of potential issues related to pricing and customer service. As with any online marketplace, research and due diligence are essential for ensuring a positive experience.
FAQs:-
Is Viagogo a legitimate website?
Yes, Viagogo is a legitimate website. It’s a global secondary ticket marketplace that connects buyers and sellers for event tickets. However, it is a resale platform, meaning tickets are being resold by individuals rather than directly from the event organizers. This has led to issues around pricing, customer service, and the authenticity of tickets.
Is Viagogo safe to use?
Viagogo is generally safe to use in terms of transaction security (it uses standard encryption methods for financial transactions). However, the experience may vary. Many users report issues with ticket delivery, inflated prices, and customer service delays. Consumer protection laws may vary by country, so it’s important to be aware of your local rights when using the platform.
Is Viagogo overpriced?
Yes, tickets on Viagogo are often resold at a markup, sometimes significantly higher than face value. This pricing model is standard for secondary ticket marketplaces but can lead to frustration for consumers who end up paying much more than they would through the official box office. Always check the original price of the tickets before purchasing on Viagogo.
To read more, Click Here