There are several methods of implementing a mobile ticketing system, with varying degrees of complexity and transparency depending on the underlying technology.
[10] The GSMA published a whitepaper on M-Ticketing in 2011, having commissioned research to examine the opportunities for network operators in a mobile ticketing market.
[11] The research was focused on a specific NFC system based on the UICC, which is owned and controlled by the network operator that issues it, and other technologies such as SMS and barcode were given passing consideration in the report.
[20] The Buffalo Bills received praise from several organizations, including the NAACP, for not adopting mobile-only ticketing, while fans across the league experienced delays and refusals of entry due to a range of issues with the system.
[5] A number of Premier League clubs adopted a mobile-only policy for the 2021–22 season, resulting in problems accessing their respective grounds and pushback from supporters' groups.
[26] The mandate removes the option to issue paper tickets for the few franchises that had not enforced a mobile-only policy, and codifies the requirement for every fan to own a smartphone and grant access to it in order to attend a game.
[29] In a process based on a mobile application, the user carries out a transaction through the app and receives a verification, such as a QR code, specific to their account.
[32][33] The implementation of OMNY, a contactless fare payment system for public transport in New York City, has provoked a number of concerns related to surveillance, data security, and transparency in the usage of passengers' information.