Backstreet send fans a warning

The Backstreet Boys want their fans to watch out for phoney tickets and backstage passes.

"The Backstreet Boys would like to inform you that there are people who are selling counterfeit tickets and backstage passes for Backstreet Boys concerts on (auction website) eBay," said a message on the BSB's official site. "This is in no way affiliated or condoned by the Backstreet Boys."

The message goes on to explain why fans shouldn't be willing to shell out large amounts of money for a chance to meet the group.

"The Backstreet Boys want you to be very careful in considering these false offers. Individuals are wasting large sums of money on these tickets and passes because they are bogus. Please be aware and know that backstage passes are never sold for Backstreet Boys shows by anyone, ever. The Backstreet Boys do not want you to be ripped off.

"Please thoroughly research any offer that seems too good to be true ..."

The Backstreet Boys have attacked scalpers before, Wall Of Sound reports.

After a performance in Denver on Oct. 31, the BSB's found out that 1,200 tickets that were supposed to be sold for $38.50 were bought by scalpers who sold them for over $100 each.

The concert promoter agreed to donate $75,000 to charity after an investigator hired by the group discovered that the tickets were supposed to be controlled by the promoter.

--AllPop