Security Risks at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Tips for Fans and Organizers

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is set to make history this summer, debuting a new 32-team format across 11 U.S. cities from June 15 to July 13. It promises world-class competition, global fanfare and, amidst all the excitement, a wide range of risks. While most eyes are on the pitch, cybercriminals, scammers, and opportunists are watching too. And they’re poised to exploit the scale, speed, and global spotlight of the tournament.

From fake ticket scams to data leaks and politically charged protests, the threats around this tournament extend far beyond the stadium gates. Here's what attendees, organizers, and even casual fans need to know to stay informed and protected.

1. Cybercriminals targeting fans: Ticket scams and fake sites

Where there's hype, there's fraud. Leading up to the Club World Cup (CWC), ZeroFox analysts have already identified suspicious websites and social media accounts advertising fake tickets. These scams often impersonate official FIFA branding and redirect users to WhatsApp or shady third-party sites.

For example, the post below advertises FIFA CWC 2025 tickets through direct messages, raising concerns about the authenticity of the offer. Although the group admin requests ticket verification, the lack of official sales channels warrants caution. 

Worse yet, some malicious domains have login portals or are flagged as malicious by threat intel platforms. That means clicking "buy now" could put your credentials at risk or even infect your device.

ZeroFox Tip: Only purchase tickets from the official FIFA website or the official CWC website. These are the only authorized ticket sales websites. See any deals that seem too good to be true? They are.

2. Public safety risks: From petty crime to crowd surges

CWC 2025 spans high-capacity stadiums in cities like Atlanta, East Rutherford, and Seattle—some in areas with elevated crime rates. Historically, major tournaments bring an uptick in petty theft, disorderly conduct, and even assaults, especially around fan zones and public transit hubs.

And it’s not just local crime. Events like the 2024 Copa América final and Euro 2020 saw fans rush gates, breach barriers, and overwhelming police and security teams.

ZeroFox Tips: 

• Stay aware of your surroundings to avoid pickpocketing on public transit or in crowded areas
• Be skeptical and vet unofficial parking or lodging before you book accomodations
• Watch for signs of crowd surges that exploit gaps in security staffing

3. Protests and political unrest: Not just about soccer

The CWC comes at a volatile moment in U.S. politics. Nationwide protests took place the day before kickoff, and demonstrations tied to immigration, labor rights, or international conflicts could easily overlap with match days. Even anti-FIFA sentiment from players and unions may spill into visible action.

While many protests remain peaceful, mass gatherings create unpredictable dynamics. For security teams and fans alike, staying informed is critical.

Get real-time intelligence on protest movements, public safety concerns, and geopolitical risks for your security team with ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence.

4. Visa delays and border tensions: International access hurdles

Currently, travel to the U.S. isn't a sure thing for all visitors. At least 19 countries face tighter visa restrictions, and fans from some participating teams have already been denied entry. Even those with tickets and travel booked have been turned away—sometimes based on social media activity.

These denials are logistical headaches for travelers, but they can also be flashpoints for public backlash and international scrutiny. In some cases, entire supporter groups have opted not to travel, and misinformation about visa eligibility has added to the confusion. 

ZeroFox Tips:

• Keep documentation like visas and game day tickets on hand
• Be aware of enhanced screening
• Expect longer security queues at ports of entry and stadiums

5. The data game: Stolen credentials, dark web sales, and email leaks

ZeroFox Intelligence has uncovered over 1,200 compromised FIFA email addresses traded on the dark web and Telegram. This includes internal accounts tied to fifa[.]com and fifa[.]org, exposing both organizational infrastructure and potential pathways for phishing, lateral movement, and brand impersonation.

This level of exposure suggests that cybercriminals are looking beyond immediate financial gain. These compromised accounts can be used for social engineering campaigns, credential-stuffing, or to gain deeper access to internal FIFA systems. With every credential leak, the data risk landscape is growing more complex.

This isn’t just a FIFA problem—it’s a cautionary tale for any global brand managing high-profile events.

Protecting the game beyond the game

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will deliver unforgettable moments on the field. But for fans, organizers, and brands involved, vigilance is key. Whether it’s a phishing scam disguised as a ticket offer or a protest blocking stadium access, the threats are real and evolving.

Cybersecurity isn’t just for tech teams anymore—it’s essential infrastructure for global entertainment. See how ZeroFox secures brands and executives from impersonation, email compromise, social engineering attacks, and more. Book a demo.