Research found a spike in FIFA World Cup 2026 scams across Meta platforms, targeting Australian football fans. Cybercriminals use malicious advertising and fake online stores to trick supporters into buying counterfeit merchandise, clicking harmful ads, and submitting personal and passport details. More than 55 football-related scam advertising campaigns were identified on Facebook and Instagram as part of a broader malvertising ecosystem that also includes email scams, illegal streaming services, and fraudulent mobile apps. Many scams promote “official” kits, Panini sticker albums, and limited-edition collector bundles using AI-generated imagery, countdown timers, and urgency tactics. Victims often receive poor-quality goods, face long delivery delays, or cannot obtain refunds. Email campaigns impersonate FIFA entities and claim recipients won prizes up to $2 million through lottery or promotional draws. Meta plans to reduce abuse and protect fans by showing reminders when users search for ticket-related terms or visit related Groups.
"Researchers identified more than 55 football-related scam advertising campaigns operating on Facebook and Instagram, as part of a global malvertising ecosystem that spans email inboxes, fake online stores, illegal streaming services and fraudulent mobile apps."
"Cybercriminals are tricking supporters into buying counterfeit merchandise, clicking on malicious ads, handing over personal and passport details, and engaging with fraudulent FIFA-themed lottery and giveaway campaigns."
"A significant portion of the scam activity centres around fake football merchandise and counterfeit collectibles, such as scam ads promoting “official” FIFA World Cup kits, Panini sticker albums, and limited-edition collector bundles, many of which are using AI-generated product imagery, countdown timers and urgency tactics such as “Limited stock” and “Selling out fast”."
"Bitdefender also uncovered a series of email scam campaigns impersonating official FIFA bodies, including the FIFA Legal and Compliance Division and the FIFA World Cup 2026 Local Organising Committee, falsely claiming recipients had won prizes of up to $2 million through FIFA lottery or promotional draws."
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