As anticipation for the Nedbank Cup Final between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates reaches a fever pitch, the eThekwini Municipality has issued a stern warning to football fans: exercise extreme caution when booking tickets, travel, or accommodation for the highly anticipated derby.
The warning comes in the wake of a ticket-buying frenzy that saw digital platforms crash and tickets sell out within minutes of opening on Monday. As we previously reported, fans were left frustrated as demand far outweighed availability—creating fertile ground for scammers peddling fake tickets, counterfeit merchandise, and fraudulent accommodation deals.
It is also worth noting that the tickets, sold via Computicket and Open Ticket outlets—and via the the official website: www.opentickets.co.za—were at the time of writing this no longer available.
A perfect storm for fraudsters
While eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba welcomed the return of the Nedbank Cup Final—last since hosted in the city in 2019—he highlighted not only the palpable excitement surrounding the event and the economic and tourism benefits it brings. However, he also cautioned visitors to remain vigilant when booking accommodation to avoid falling victim to online scammers.
“We encourage visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s attractions, but to also remain vigilant and avoid falling for scams,” Xaba said. “Visitors are also encouraged to carefully verify any packages that advertise “free tickets” and to obtain their tickets exclusively through registered outlets.”
To enhance the excitement around the event, the municipality will host public viewing areas in various parts of Durban to ensure more fans can watch the game together in a festive and secure environment.
Details for the public viewing areas will be announced via official the municipal platforms:
- Social media: @eThekwiniM on X and eThekwini Municipality on Facebook.
- Website: Durban.gov.za
From fake listings to phony promises
With the demand for match access at an all-time high, fraudsters are exploiting desperate fans through fake accommodation listings and bogus match ticket offers. Whether online or in person, staying alert is key to a safe and enjoyable football weekend.
How to outsmart scammers
To help fans avoid falling victim to scams, the municipality and cybersecurity experts recommend these essential safety tips:
- Purchase only from official vendors: Whether it’s tickets, travel packages, or merchandise, always buy through authorised platforms such as Computicket, which managed a portion of the online ticketing process, and official channels and team websites.
- Avoid deals that seem too good to be true: Deep discounts or “urgent” resales should raise red flags.
- Double-check URLs and emails: Phishing websites often mimic real ones with small changes. Always inspect links and email addresses before clicking or submitting personal information.
- Use secure payment methods: Avoid EFTs or payments to personal accounts. Stick with secure, traceable options like credit cards or verified payment gateways.
- Verify accommodation listings: If booking through platforms like Airbnb, read reviews, check the host’s credentials, and never pay off-platform.
Crowd safety and law enforcement preparedness
In addition to cyber scams, phisical safety will be a top priority. Durban Metro Police and SAPS are ramping up on-ground security, including crowd control and fraud prevention units stationed around key transport hubs and the stadium itself.
Fans are urged to report any suspicious behavior immediately to law enforcement.
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