The North American International Auto Show is currently taking place in Detroit, Michigan. Attorney General Dana Nessel has issued a warning to attendees about potential parking scams around the event venue, Huntington Place. Visitors driving into the city may encounter scammers selling unauthorized parking spaces, leading to issues such as tickets, towing, or theft. Nessel advises planning parking in advance and exercising caution. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) also warns of fake parking tickets created using new technology, urging people to verify the legitimacy of any tickets before making payments.

Parking Precautions for Auto Show Attendees

To ensure a smooth experience, visitors should take proactive measures to avoid falling victim to parking scams. Planning ahead and being vigilant can significantly reduce the risk of encountering fraudulent activities. It is crucial to secure parking receipts upon payment and only entrust keys to attendants when valet services are officially confirmed. These steps help protect both vehicles and personal information from unscrupulous individuals.

Visitors should research available parking options and local regulations before arriving at the event. This preparation minimizes the chances of becoming an easy target for scammers who often prey on tourists unfamiliar with local laws. Additionally, scrutinizing parking lots and verifying the authenticity of valet services can prevent unnecessary complications. By staying informed and cautious, attendees can enjoy the Auto Show without worrying about parking-related issues.

Verifying Parking Tickets and Payments

Another critical aspect of avoiding scams involves carefully examining any parking citations received. Scammers can replicate official logos and city office names, but discrepancies often appear in the website details provided. Visitors must compare the ticket's information with the official municipal website and confirm the legitimacy before proceeding with any payments. Ensuring secure payment methods further safeguards against fraudulent charges.

To safeguard against fake parking tickets, attendees should conduct thorough checks. An imitation website might be where the scam becomes apparent, so it’s essential to search for the city’s official parking ticket websites and compare them with the citation received. Government sites typically end in .gov or .ca for Canada. If a payment page is involved, it should have a secure connection. Double-checking the entity and address for check payments is also vital. Using credit cards for payments offers better protection against fraud, as consumers can contest charges more easily if they discover they’ve been scammed.