Technology / 02.07.19

Competition Bureau Finds Ticketmaster's Scalper Bots Don't Violate Its Rules

Access Staff

The Loop (01/31/19) Rodriguez, Jeremiah

Canada's Competition Bureau has determined that Ticketmaster's scalper bot software does not violate the nation's anti-competitive business statutes. The Tradedesk software allegedly permits users to synchronize their Ticketmaster accounts to purchase tickets online, so they can list tickets on the secondary market. Complainants argued that this enabled the mass scalping of tickets, but the bureau said its findings did not support this charge. However, Interim Commissioner of Competition Matthew Boswell cited an ongoing case against Ticketmaster, its parent Live Nation, and its affiliates over allegations of false advertising over ticket prices for sports and entertainment events. The Bureau said the key issue is whether consumers end up paying extra fees added later in the purchasing process. "The Competition Act is the best tool to crack down on false or misleading representations, including misleading ticket price advertising," Boswell stated. "That's why we sued Ticketmaster, and we remain committed to advancing our ongoing litigation."

Read the full article on The Loop.

Tags: Ticketmaster , Reselling , Regulations , News , Secondary Ticketing