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Scammers are everywhere nowadays. From fake products and miracle medications to parking scams, there’s no shortage of wrongdoers who would much rather deprive you of your hard-earned cash than earn some money of their own. Unfortunately, some parking scams can look legit and lead to other issues beyond money, like a ticket from the police or a tow. 

Parking scams like fake parking lots can cost drivers money, headaches, and even trouble with the law

Any time an event rolls into town, you’ll likely see business lots, driveways, and even lawns repurposed as parking lots. After all, there’s a profit to be had. However, some delinquents identify the influx of event-goers as an opportunity to hatch scams.

For example, some pay-to-park surface lots will feature “lot attendants” who take your money in exchange for safe parking. According to TVA, one such scam involves the attendant taking payment and directing the driver to a space. Business as usual, right? Not so much.

In some cases, the scams involve the attendant simply taking the money and leaving. No protection for your vehicle and no real claim to the parking spaces in question. However, in some cases, the disappearing attendant scams will lead to a parking ticket. Tragically, if you violate parking regulations, you could return to an empty spot after a tow truck absconds with your ride. 

Tragically, some criminals will go as far as to demand money by threatening property damage or violence. For instance, one concert-goer attending Riot Fest in Chicago, Illinois lost her FIAT 500X to a “parking attendant” with a penchant for arson. The arson reportedly approached the FIAT driver demanding $20 to park in a public space on Chicago’s South Albany Avenue. He promised to “set her car on fire” when she refused. To her shock and sorrow, the man went through with the threat and set her vehicle on fire.

It’s best to opt for legitimate parking solutions when attending large events like Riot Fest. But that doesn’t excuse crime or property destruction. Always report suspected scams to the authorities.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).