Missouri Attorney General warns World Cup visitors about scams
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway is urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant against scams as Kansas City prepares to host matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Hanaway said the global event is expected to attract millions of visitors and create opportunities for scammers targeting fans seeking lodging, tickets and parking.
“With the World Cup coming to Kansas City, excitement is high and, unfortunately, so is the potential for fraud,” Hanaway said in a statement.
The attorney general’s office recommends booking short-term rentals through established platforms and avoiding requests for payment outside official booking systems. Consumers are also encouraged to verify property addresses, compare prices with similar listings and review any complaints through the Better Business Bureau before booking.
Officials also warned fans about ticket scams, including counterfeit, altered or duplicated tickets. Consumers should use official ticketing platforms, verify ticket authenticity and avoid sharing personal or financial information with unfamiliar sellers or websites.
The attorney general’s office recommends using credit cards for purchases because they often provide additional fraud protections.
Visitors are also encouraged to be cautious when parking during World Cup events. Officials recommend checking parking regulations, ensuring lots are open to the public and verifying citations before making any payments. The office noted that official parking tickets issued in Kansas City can be verified through the city’s municipal court system and should never require payment through unknown QR codes or text links.
Missourians who believe they have encountered a scam can contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Complaint Hotline at 800-392-8222 or file a complaint through the attorney general’s office.
