Online ticket booking platforms have become an integral part of our lives, offering convenience and ease when securing tickets for concerts, sports events, flights, and more. However, behind the glossy interface lies a darker reality—one that leaves customers feeling harassed and manipulated. In this article, we delve into the practices employed by online ticket booking sites in India that harm consumers and distort ticket prices.
Hidden Fees: The Silent StingHidden fees are the bane of ticket buyers. You think you’ve found a great deal, but as you proceed to checkout, additional charges suddenly appear—service fees, processing fees, convenience fees, and whatnot. These fees were cleverly concealed until the last moment, catching you off guard. Why? Because they know you’re emotionally invested and more likely to complete the purchase.The Drip Pricing TacticImagine selecting seats for your favorite concert or a crucial cricket match. You’re excited, ready to click “buy,” and then—bam!—the fees materialize. These extra charges were nowhere to be seen during your browsing journey. This tactic, known as drip pricing, preys on your commitment and nudges you to pay more than you initially intended.
All-Inclusive vs. Hidden FeesBefore 2015, ticketing giant BookMyShow displayed all-inclusive prices upfront. You knew exactly what you were paying for—ticket price, fees, and any other costs. But then came the experiment. Some users were randomly assigned to a hidden-fee structure. These unlucky souls saw only the ticket list price while shopping, with the extra fees revealed at checkout.The Shocking DifferenceThe results were staggering. Users in the hidden-fee group spent 21% more on tickets and were 14% more likely to complete a purchase. Even among those who made purchases, they ended up buying tickets that were about 5% more expensive than the upfront-fee group. Drip pricing successfully nudged customers to spend more and accept higher prices
Ticket Scalping and BotsBeyond hidden fees, the ticketing industry faces another menace: ticket scalping. Cybercriminals use automated bots to snatch up tickets as soon as they’re released, leaving genuine fans empty-handed. These bots buy tickets in bulk, artificially inflate prices, and resell them at exorbitant rates. The result? Fans pay a premium, and scalpers profit.The Battle Against BotsOnline event ticket sales reached a whopping $10 billion in 2019, and the global market is projected to hit $68 billion by 2025. To combat ticket scalping, companies must invest in robust bot-detection systems. These systems identify suspicious activity, block bots, and ensure fair access for genuine buyers.
Fake Ticket Websites:
Buyer BewareScammers thrive during major events like the Indian Premier League (IPL). Fake ticket websites lure unsuspecting buyers with attractive prices, only to vanish once the payment is made. Hyderabad Police has issued warnings against such scams, advising fans to check for holograms and avoid unauthorized sellers.
Conclusion
While online ticket booking offers convenience, consumers must remain vigilant. Read the fine print, be aware of hidden fees, and support platforms that prioritize transparency. As for ticket sellers, ethical practices will build trust and ensure a positive experience for all.
