Protect yourself from petrol pump scams in India: Tips and tricks

Petrol pump scams have recently become a common vice in India. Anyone who owns a car should be informed about these scams and what can be done to prevent themselves from falling into the scammers' traps. Read this article to learn how to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of petrol pump scams.

Top 5 tips and tricks to save yourself from a petrol pump scam

Scamsters are coming up with innovative ways to scam people, but here are the top 4 ways you can get scammed if you are unaware of the same. So, read on to keep yourself aware and protect yourself from falling into the trap.

1. Check the fuel meter before filling the tank

It is always important to check the meter before you get the car filled up by a service station, especially when you are in a hurry.

Scam strategy:

Some of the common scams witnessed at petrol pumps these days involve manipulating the meters to show that a lesser amount of fuel has been pumped.

How to stay safe?

Therefore, be sure that the meter reads zero before you proceed to fill whatever you are measuring. Further, confirm that the meter reading and the quantity of fuel indicated in the bill are correct.

This most basic practice will go a long way in preventing many petrol pump scams.

2. Pay only after fueling

Usually, you should refuel first before proceeding to the payment.

Scam strategy:

Some petrol pumps defraud customers by charging them before they fuel when the card machine apparently does not function. The fraudsters then note down the customer's payment details, which could lead to fraudulent transactions on the customer's card.

How to stay safe?

Never pay in advance. This will help prevent fraudsters from targeting petrol pumps and gaining access to debit/credit card details. Also, you should ensure that staff is closely monitored when filling the fuel. Never leave your card out of sight, even for a minute!

3. Check for authentic pumps

If you need to visit a petrol pump at an unknown location or a remote place, check for authenticity around you so that you can protect yourself. Check for CCTVs, properly dressed staff, etc.

Scam strategy:

Typically, some install fake meters or pour less fuel into a vehicle through deceitful petrol pump scams. It is also important to observe the meter from time to time. Take your time when observing any aspect that seems slightly out of the norm. This may reduce the chances of staff engaging in petrol pump scams.

How to stay safe?

Step out of your car to check that the entire amount of fuel is being put into your vehicle and opt for UPI or cash payments so that you do not risk sharing your card details at a petrol station in an unknown location!

4. Check the bills carefully

In this particular case, always scrutinise petrol bills before making the payment.

Scam strategy:

This type of fraud is not unique to India and has been witnessed before in cases such as petrol pump scams in which more money was charged than the amount of fuel that was dispensed.

How to stay safe?

You check the bill carefully before paying whenever you buy something. Even while purchasing a car insurance plan, you check the details before paying. Similarly, you must check what you are paying for at a petrol pump to avoid unnecessary charges. Details to check are date, time, meter reading, fuel quantity, rates, total amount, etc., to ensure that your transaction is in order.

5. The long hose trick

Most fuel stations today have long hoses to fill the fuel.

Scam strategy:

The quantity displayed on the screen is correct, and once the set quantity is filled, the hose still has some fuel left. This has been metered, and the car driver will pay for it, but this fuel has yet to be given.

How to stay safe?

Ensure the entire hose is emptied into your car before the same is put back so that you take every drop of petrol that you pay for. 

Conclusion

Car insurance policyholders should pay attention to the following things to avoid falling prey to these petrol pump scams. Meters should always be checked, staff should be observed while filling fuel, bills should be requested before payment, and fuel additives should be used. Be safe and always be ready to challenge anything that seems odd to avoid dangerous situations.