GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – As Green Bay prepares to host the 2025 NFL Draft, authorities are warning fans and visitors to be vigilant against scams targeting those attending the event.
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has released a list of common scams to watch for ahead of the draft, which begins April 24.
Lodging Scams
With hundreds of thousands of visitors expected in Green Bay, many will turn to short-term rental platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and HomeToGo for accommodations. However, scammers may post fake listings for properties they do not own or that do not exist.
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Officials advise cross-referencing listings across multiple platforms, verifying addresses through map applications, and checking third-party review sites. Consumers should be cautious if a host asks them to communicate or pay outside the rental platform, as scammers often use this tactic to avoid detection. Additionally, payments should be made through secure methods, avoiding cryptocurrency, prepaid gift cards, wire transfers, or cash apps.
Fake Ticket Scams
General admission to the NFL Draft campus and the NFL Draft Experience fan festival is free and does not require tickets. However, scammers may attempt to sell fraudulent tickets for these events or create fake giveaways.
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While some VIP and hospitality areas may require paid entry, officials emphasize that attendees should only purchase tickets from official sources. Fans are encouraged to register in advance on the NFL OnePass app for event information and interactive experiences.
Imposter Websites
Scammers often create fake websites that closely resemble legitimate ones, tricking consumers into providing personal and payment information. These sites may be promoted through fake emails, texts, and online ads, offering counterfeit merchandise or stealing financial details.
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Authorities recommend carefully checking website URLs for misspellings or formatting errors before entering sensitive information. If a familiar website unexpectedly requires login credentials, users should verify its authenticity before proceeding. When in doubt, manually enter the website’s address into a browser.
For more information on consumer protection or to file a complaint, visit the DATCP Consumer Protection website.
