Parking scam targeting Festival of Lights visitors in downtown Riverside

Riverside city officials are warning the public of a parking scam targeting visitors at the Mission Inn’s Festival of Lights.

The scam involves a fake QR code placed at pay stations in and around the downtown area, officials said.

When scanning the fraudulent QR codes, one version simply asks for credit card payment information. Another version offers users $1 parking if they pay with their Bank of America card.

Photo of an fradulent online payment page when scanning the fake QR codes placed on parking kiosks and meters around downtown Riverside. (City of Riverside)
Photo of an fradulent online payment page when scanning the fake QR codes placed on parking kiosks and meters around downtown Riverside. (City of Riverside)
Photo of an fradulent online payment page when scanning the fake QR codes placed on parking kiosks and meters around downtown Riverside. (City of Riverside)
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa’s Festival of Lights display in downtown Riverside, California. (Mission Inn Hotel & Spa)
Historic Spanish-style landmark the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa in downtown Riverside on Oct. 24, 2023. (KTLA)

Both versions are not official city payment sites and will compromise users’ personal information.

Authorities are warning visitors to the Festival of Lights to be aware when paying for parking at a kiosk or meter. The fake QR codes are generally smaller than the authentic ones, officials noted.

When making payments, only use the official ParkRiverside app or website to pay. The website can be found here: RiversideCA.gov/Parking. The official app can be downloaded here.

If something looks suspicious, the public is asked to immediately report it to city staff by calling 311, submitting a tip online, or emailing CallCenter@RiversideCA.gov.

The Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa runs through Dec. 31.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.

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