Summary
Gas prices are on the rise. However, when you feel like you’re being robbed at the pump, it will feel even worse if you fall victim to a scam while you’re filling up. Here are four scams you could encounter at the gas pump.
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Gas prices are on the rise and they have been for a while. Recently the price in my area went up 50 cents overnight. However, when you feel like you’re being robbed at the pump it will feel even worse if you fall victim to a gas scam. Here are four scams that you could encounter while you’re filling up your tank.
For Personal Tech Media, this is Two Minute Tech. I’m Jim Herman.
First, watch out for skimmers that are trying to steal your credit card. These skimmers attach to the credit card swipe and grab the data as you’re swiping your card. Look for anything unusual or different and pull on the card reader to ensure that nothing comes off. If something does come off the card reader alert the attendant at the station.
Second, beware of pump switching. Pump switching happens when the thief swaps the nozzles on the two sides of the pump. After you swipe your card, the thief fills up on your wallet. You see the numbers on your side of the pump going up but you get back in the car with an empty tank and an empty wallet.
Third, watch for pumps that don’t give you what you’re paying for. Some stations will use tricks to restrict gas flow, add a small amount of pumped fuel before you’ve even lifted the pump, or charge you the credit card rate when you’re paying cash. While these may be small amounts to you, they add up over time for the station.
And finally, watch out for people who might try to get in your car while you’re busy at the pump. They could steal items from your car or hide inside the car and carjack you. It’s never a bad idea to lock the doors when you get out to pump fuel. Just remember to take the keys with you.