Impark Reef App Validation Failure Diagnostic Report -... | terminalfaults.org

Technical Background:

The Reef app communicates with Impark's cloud servers via TLS/SSL for secure data transmission. Validation code processing involves a JSON payload sent to an API endpoint. Failure points can occur at the TLS handshake level (incompatible cipher suites), API endpoint (HTTP 4xx or 5xx errors), or during JSON parsing (format mismatch between the app and server expectations). DNS resolution failures can also prevent API communication.

Symptoms:

The Impark Reef app consistently reports an 'incorrect validation format' error when attempting to process parking validation codes.

Possible Causes:

1. **API Endpoint Failure:** The Impark API server might be temporarily unavailable or returning an unexpected HTTP status code (e.g., 500 Internal Server Error).
2. **TLS/SSL Handshake Failure:** The app and server are unable to establish a secure connection due to mismatched TLS versions or cipher suites. This can occur after a server-side update.
3. **JSON Payload Mismatch:** The Reef app is sending validation codes in a JSON format that the Impark server does not recognize or accept. This could be due to a software update on either the app or the server.
4. **DNS Resolution Error:** The kiosk's DNS server is unable to resolve the Impark API's domain name, preventing the app from connecting to the server.
5. **Token Invalidation:** The API requires a valid authentication token, which might have expired or been revoked.
6. **Caching Issues:** The app or the kiosk operating system might be caching outdated validation data or API responses, leading to the error.

Solution:

1

Verify the kiosk's internet connectivity and DNS settings.
2

Confirm that the kiosk system time is accurate, as incorrect time can cause TLS/SSL handshake failures.
3

Clear the Reef app's cache and data within the kiosk operating system's application settings.
4

Restart the Reef app.
5

Check the Impark server status page (if available) for any reported outages or maintenance.
6

Examine the application logs (if accessible) for detailed error messages related to API communication or TLS/SSL.
7

Reinstall the Reef application to ensure the software is the most current version.

Safety Warning:

Ensure the kiosk is secured against unauthorized access or tampering, particularly in unattended public environments. Exercise caution when handling the kiosk during cold weather conditions; condensation can damage electronic components. If possible, bring the internal components up to room temperature before operating.

Prevention:

Regularly update the Reef app and the kiosk's operating system to ensure compatibility with the Impark server's security protocols and API specifications. Implement a monitoring solution to detect and alert on network connectivity issues.

Expert Tip:

If the issue persists, attempt to access the Impark API endpoint directly from a web browser on the kiosk (if possible) to isolate whether the problem lies within the Reef app or the underlying network/API infrastructure. Use browser developer tools to inspect the API request and response headers.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the TLS version supported by the Impark API?

TLS 1.2 or higher is recommended for security reasons.

•What is the expected JSON format for validation codes?

The format should adhere to the API documentation provided by Impark. Common formats include alphanumeric codes with specific length or character requirements.

•Are there any firewall restrictions on the kiosk network?

Ensure that the firewall allows outbound traffic to the Impark API server on port 443 (HTTPS).

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the TLS version supported by the Impark API?

•What is the expected JSON format for validation codes?

•Are there any firewall restrictions on the kiosk network?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: