Question 1

What is the "Fake Event Ticket & Vacation Rental Fraud" scam in New Orleans?

Accepted Answer

Fraudulent listings for Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and French Quarter Festival accommodations appear on Craigslist and lesser-known booking platforms, often using photos stolen from legitimate Airbnb or VRBO listings. Victims pay hundreds to thousands of dollars upfront via wire transfer or Zelle, then arrive to find no rental exists or a property that looks nothing like advertised. Ticket scams follow the same pattern, with fake Mardi Gras parade viewing balcony packages and Jazz Fest tickets sold via social media DMs. Book accommodations only through major platforms with verified host reviews and secure payment systems that offer buyer protection. Never pay via wire transfer, Zelle, or cash app for accommodation. For event tickets, purchase directly from official festival websites or authorized resellers only.

Question 2

What is the "Fake NOLA Event Ticket Sites and Social Media Resellers" scam in New Orleans?

Accepted Answer

Counterfeit ticket operations targeting Jazz Fest, Essence Fest, and French Quarter Festival operate through fake websites and social media accounts that closely mimic official event branding. Buyers receive QR codes that either fail to scan at the gate or are duplicated across hundreds of transactions — both problems only surface at the turnstile on event day. Purchase tickets only through the official event website or Louisiana-licensed ticket sellers. Avoid any Facebook Marketplace or Instagram DM offers, even if the account appears legitimate with many followers.

Online Scams in New Orleans

Fake Event Ticket & Vacation Rental Fraud

Fake NOLA Event Ticket Sites and Social Media Resellers

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