FIFA is working with police forces globally to crack down on internet sales of fake tickets for next year's World Cup in South Africa.

Unauthorised websites are already being closed down as demand grows for tickets for the finals, kicking off on June 11.

FIFA said one example of its co-operation with the police was the "great support" it had received from the Police Central e-Crime Unit of New Scotland Yard in London in the fight against unauthorised ticket resellers operating via the web.

As part of a major operation, FIFA said New Scotland Yard was shutting down websites selling unauthorised tickets.

"Our work with New Scotland Yard is yet another example that we are taking serious steps to stop unauthorised entities from selling 2010 FIFA World Cup tickets," FIFA said in a statement.

Newspapers in England reported last week that 100 sites had been shut down so far, 20 of them based in England.

FIFA expects between 450,000 and 500,000 fans to visit South Africa for the finals for which fears about safety and personal security have long been an issue.

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