They’re known as “scalper-bots” – computer software that scoops up huge numbers of tickets to concerts and sporting events – and forces customers to the expensive resale market.

And an Ontario government backbencher is trying to outlaw the practice.

Liberal Sophie Kiwala represents Kingston and the Islands – and she  says more often than not, tickets to popular events are unavailable –  within moments of being placed for sale online.

Fans have their credit cards ready so they can make the purchase the moment tickets go on sale – but often find themselves shut out –  even though they constantly refresh the website.

Kiwala says re-sellers are using security bypass software, or “scalper bots,” to override the number of tickets that can be bought in one transaction – and then offering them online for resale – at exorbitant prices.

Her private member’s bill would also require that the original face value of a ticket be disclosed when it is resold.

Attorney General Yasir Naqvi recommended that Liberals support the legislation on second reading – which suggests the bill has a better chance than most of becoming law.