Gas stations are a convenient stop for fueling up, grabbing a snack, or stretching your legs on a long drive. But behind the scenes, scammers have found ways to turn these everyday stops into opportunities for fraud. From tampering with pumps to fake service offers, gas station scams can cost you time and money – and even compromise your personal information.
Knowing what to look out for can help you avoid falling victim to these sneaky tricks. Here are the common gas station scams to be aware of.
Credit Card Skimmers at the Pump
Skimmers are tiny devices placed over card readers to steal your credit or debit card information. They’re often impossible to spot unless you know what to look for. To avoid this scam, always check the card reader for signs of tampering, such as loose parts or mismatched colors.
Use pumps closest to the station entrance, where cameras are more likely to be watching. Paying inside is a safer option.
Fake “Help” Offers from Strangers
Someone pretending to help you – such as offering to clean your windshield or pump your gas – could be distracting you while an accomplice steals from your car. To stay safe, politely decline unsolicited help and keep your doors locked while refueling.
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid leaving your car unattended with windows open. If someone persists in offering help, inform the gas station staff or call for assistance.
Short-Changing at the Register
Gas station cashiers sometimes run a short-change scam, especially when you’re paying cash. They might give back less change than you’re owed or confuse you with quick movements and chatter to distract you. This scam often targets customers in a rush who might not double-check their change. Always take the time to count the money handed back and compare it with your receipt.
If you notice a discrepancy, address it immediately before leaving the counter. Paying by card eliminates this risk.
Overcharging on Fuel Prices
Some gas stations advertise one price on their signs but charge a higher one at the pump. This trick often involves baiting drivers with a low cash price but applying a higher credit price without clearly stating the difference.
Before refueling, double-check that the pump reflects the price displayed on the sign and whether there’s a difference for cash or card payments.
Charging for Air and Water When it Should Be Free
Many states require gas stations to provide free air and water for vehicles, but some stations charge you anyway. Some tamper with free air machines to make them appear broken, directing you to pay-per-use machines instead. Before paying, check for signs indicating free air or water availability. Some states, like California, require stations to provide these services if you purchase gas.
Scamming Through Fake Fuel Grades
Another scam involves labeling regular gas as a higher grade to justify charging more per gallon. Unsuspecting drivers might not notice they’re paying for premium gas while receiving regular-grade gas. Pay attention to the pump labels and confirm the grade you selected before starting – and if possible, stick to well-known brands with strict quality controls.
Inflated Prices for Convenience Store Items
Many gas stations sell convenience store items at inflated prices, relying on travelers being in a hurry and not checking prices carefully. Watch out for items with no price tags, as cashiers might arbitrarily charge you more.
Keeping snacks and drinks in your car will reduce the need to buy overpriced items on the road.
“Out of Order” Pumps That Lead You Inside
Marking outdoor pumps as “out of order” to force customers to pay inside isn’t illegal, but this tactic often involves charging higher prices for in-store payments. Check multiple pumps before assuming all are out of service. Paying at the pump, when available, helps you avoid this inconvenience altogether.
Pressure for Unnecessary Repairs
Beware of gas stations that offer repairs or maintenance services and pressure you into unnecessary fixes. These scammers might claim you need urgent repairs to a bad tire or leaking fluid, even when your car is fine.
Always decline on-the-spot repairs unless you are already aware of an issue. Scammers thrive on creating a sense of urgency, so staying calm and informed protects you from falling for this trick.
Adding Unauthorized Charges to Your Bill
Unscrupulous gas stations may try to sneak extra charges onto your receipt, such as car washes or additional items you didn’t purchase. This scam often happens when you’re distracted and not checking your total.
Before paying, review your bill to ensure only the items you selected are included. If something doesn’t add up, ask for a corrected receipt and avoid signing anything suspicious.
Pump Tampering That Dispenses Less Fuel
Dishonest gas stations have been known to tamper with their pumps to deliver less fuel than you pay for. The meter might say you’ve received a full gallon, but the actual amount could be less. To protect yourself, stick to reputable stations and pay attention to how quickly the pump dispenses fuel. Monitoring your car’s fuel gauge after filling up can also help you spot discrepancies.
Distraction Tactics to Steal Valuables
Never leave doors unlocked or valuables in plain sight while refueling. Scammers often work in pairs, using one person to distract you while another steals from your car. Stay vigilant by keeping your doors locked and your belongings out of reach. Avoid leaving your car unattended for extended periods, even to grab a coffee or snack.
Fake Charity Solicitations
Watch out for scammers who pose as charity collectors, approaching drivers at gas stations to solicit donations. They may use fake uniforms or emotional stories to tug at your heartstrings. Legitimate charities rarely solicit donations this way, so politely decline and suggest they provide a website or contact information for their cause.
“Free” Promotional Offers That Aren’t
Crafty gas stations have been known to lure customers with “free” items, such as car washes or snacks, only to charge hidden fees. These offers often come with fine print requiring a purchase or additional conditions. Always read the terms before accepting any promotion and confirm with the cashier if it’s truly free.
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