August 14 – Zac Eller of ExpressVPN has urged UK football clubs to invest in tightening up their public Wi-Fi to prevent fans falling victim to online scammers.
Research recently published by Eller’s firm, which became Tottenham’s Digital Privacy Partner in 2024, found that 50% of UK event-goers have been scammed while trying to buy tickets online, losing an average of £100 each.
But Eller, the GM of Global Partnerships at the company, says fans are also taking risks connecting to in-stadium Wi-Fi.
He said: “As organisers think about how to best prepare for a successful season, there’s one area they shouldn’t ignore – digital security for their fans and visitors. As sports fans and event goers prepare to travel in their thousands, unsecure Wi‑Fi systems are putting people’s personal data and private information at risk.”
A recent study by the firm of 1,500 Brits found that 39% would think twice about attending an event if they had concerns over the venue’s data privacy or online security, and that 60% thought that sports clubs and event organisers should add extra precautions to their public Wi‑Fi systems.
Eller said: “Our latest survey found that while the majority of people (80%) are aware of the dangers of connecting to public Wi‑Fi networks, over a quarter (27%) have downloaded sensitive information, such as work documents or bank statements, when connected.
“It’s clear that stadiums need to treat digital security with the same urgency as physical safety – before trust is lost and reputations are damaged.
“If stadium operators and event organisers are to provide a safe experience, they need to invest in things like encrypted networks, routine vulnerability assessments, and robust access controls.”
ExpressVPN’s stated aim is to work with and educate fans on staying safe online, whether at home, on the move, or in the stadium.