NASHVILLE (AP) — With the start of football season comes a warning from Tennessee consumer officials: Beware of scammers.

Consumer Affairs Director Gary Cordell says fans who choose a less-than-reputable source when buying tickets run the risk of being ripped off.

If purchasing tickets online, Cordell suggests asking to see a picture of the tickets and confirm that the seats match up with the venue.

And if buying from resellers at an event, he says to look at the tickets closely for any inaccuracies or alterations.

Cordell says such precautions "can help you ... avoid handing your hard-earned money over to scammers looking to make a quick dollar."