TRM Labs has identified multiple cryptocurrency scams targeting FIFA World Cup fans, including two fake-ticketing websites and one fixed-match betting scheme linked to four crypto addresses. The blockchain intelligence firm warns that criminals exploit major events like the World Cup by setting up infrastructure weeks in advance and scaling it during peak public attention. Onchain crypto payments allow investigators to act before losses grow. The 2026 World Cup, with an expected 6.5 million fans and $40.9 billion GDP impact, creates ample opportunities for scammers. The FBI and FIFA have also issued warnings: the FBI noted spoofed FIFA websites collecting personal data and selling fake tickets, while FIFA cautions that tickets from unofficial channels may be invalid. Despite high demand, official resale portals reportedly had 176,000 unsold group-stage tickets as of Tuesday, underscoring a complex ticketing environment.

Key facts

• TRM Labs identified two fake FIFA ticketing sites and a fixed-match betting scheme linked to crypto addresses.
• Scammers build infrastructure weeks before major events and scale during peak attention, TRM Labs warns.
• FBI warns of spoofed FIFA websites collecting personal info and selling fake tickets.
• FIFA cautions that tickets from unofficial channels may be invalid and cancelled without notice.
• Official resale portals had 176,000 unsold group-stage tickets as of Tuesday amid high demand.