Go to Main Content

Advertisement

By Special to MoneySense on October 20, 2016
Estimated reading time: 1 minute

“Scalper bots” may be outlawed in Ontario

By Special to MoneySense on October 20, 2016
Estimated reading time: 1 minute

Concert-goers and sports junkies may have reason to celebrate

Advertisement

TORONTO – Ontario plans to introduce legislation next spring to outlaw computer “scalper bots” that scoop up huge blocks of tickets to concerts and major sporting events, forcing many customers to the more expensive resale market. Attorney General Yasir Naqvi admits there’s no magic bullet he can use to stop criminals operating in other jurisdictions from using sophisticated computer software to make bulk purchases of tickets to resell at far above face value. But he says inaction is not the answer either, and feels strongly that the government needs to do something to try to protect consumers and make sure they get a “fair shot” at buying tickets to big events.

Tragically Hip tickets scalped? Here's how it's done

Naqvi says he was “bugged” by seeing Tragically Hip fans being shut out of initial ticket sales for the iconic Canadian band’s farewell tour last summer. He plans to consult with consumer groups, entertainers and his colleagues in other jurisdictions like New York, who have also struggled to deal with ticket scalping and “bots.” Naqvi says the government’s legislation will build on a private member’s bill by Liberal Sophia Kiwala, which also was aimed at banning “scalper bots.” “I want to see what kind of solutions we can put in place,” he said. “New York and London are bigger markets than us, and they’re struggling with the same thing.”

Comments Cancel reply

Related Articles

Justin Trudeau announces his resignation at a press conference

CRA to continue administering changes to capital gains tax during prorogation

The increase to the capital gains inclusion rate is going ahead—at least for now, says Canada’s Finance Department.

CRA to continue administering changes to capital gains tax during prorogation

How prorogation will impact capital gains tax changes in Canada

The Canada Revenue Agency has yet to offer guidance on how the Liberals’ capital gains tax proposal will be...

How prorogation will impact capital gains tax changes in Canada

Canadian woman working at a payday loans, checking the risk of a potential client.

Canada has new rules for high-interest loans—here they are

Canada has new rules for high-interest loans—here they are

A photo of the TMX Market Centre building in downtownToronto

Will Canada’s economy grow in 2025?

For 2025, experts predict economic growth, but slower gains and more volatility.

Will Canada’s economy grow in 2025?

Close-up of a Canadian 20 dollar bill

Changes to Canada’s tax brackets, CPP contributions and more in 2025

It's a new year. What financial changes will take effect in Canada in 2025?

Changes to Canada’s tax brackets, CPP contributions and more in 2025

Two young girls play on the swings

CCB payment dates in 2025, and more to know about the Canada Child Benefit

Parents, here are the CCB payment dates for 2025, along with how much you can expect to receive each...

CCB payment dates in 2025, and more to know about the Canada Child Benefit

A woman uses her phone and laptop on a sunny patio with a cocktail

10 financial buzzwords we kept hearing in 2024

These 10 words and phrases captured 2024’s financial mood. From coffee badging to underconsumption-core, these are the trends on...

10 financial buzzwords we kept hearing in 2024

People walking at a Canadian airport, as talk about passenger rights changes are a buzz.

Changes to flight passenger rights in Canada

New rules clarify when travellers are compensated for flight disruptions.

Changes to flight passenger rights in Canada

Two glasses shown half-full to demonstrate the optimism from investment advisor Allan Small.

Why I’m optimistic about the markets in 2025–tariffs or no

This advisor isn’t losing any sleep over the markets. In fact, looking back at 2024 and forward into 2025,...

Why I’m optimistic about the markets in 2025–tariffs or no

Can Santander take on Canada’s Big Six? Why the global bank may face hurdles

A fresh international challenger has the potential to add competition to the country’s banking oligopoly, though experts warn it...

Can Santander take on Canada’s Big Six? Why the global bank may face hurdles