Computer "scalper bots" that scoop up concert tickets to be outlawed in Ontario
TORONTO — Computer “scalper bots” that scoop up huge blocks of tickets to concerts and major sporting events, forcing customers to the more expensive resale market, could soon be outlawed in Ontario.
Attorney General Yasir Naqvi says the government plans to introduce legislation next spring that would make it illegal to use sophisticated computer software for bulk ticket purchases.
But he admits there’s no easy way to stop criminals in other jurisdictions from using the “scalper bots” to purchase tickets and then reselling them in Ontario at far above face value.
“The enforcement piece is an important issue, and frankly speaking there’s no silver bullet, but inaction is not the answer either,” Naqvi said Thursday.