A New Kind of 'Skimming' Is Coming to a Gas Station Near You

Gas stations are places we visit regularly, but they can also be spots where criminals look for opportunities to scam unsuspecting customers. Whether you're stopping to fuel up, grab a snack, or use the bathroom, it's important to be aware of the different ways scammers might try to take advantage of you. Many people don't think twice about swiping their card at the pump or paying for gas inside, but scammers often target these moments of routine to trick people into giving up their personal information or money. By staying alert and knowing what to look for, you can help protect yourself from these scams. So, before you fill up your tank next time, take a moment to educate yourself on how criminals operate at the pump and how to stay safe.

1. Pump Switching

If you're not paying attention, you could end up paying for someone else's gas due to a sneaky trick known as "pump switching." In this scam, thieves switch the hoses from one side of the pump to the other, then wait for an unsuspecting victim to come along.

Here's how it works: when you arrive and start fueling, you insert the nozzle into your car and pull the trigger, expecting gas to flow. But what you don't realize is that the hose you're using is attached to the wrong side of the pump. Since the pump is waiting for a fuel selection, no gas comes out. Meanwhile, the hose that should be delivering fuel to your car is on the other side, filling up the scammer's vehicle.

By the time you notice something's wrong, the thief has already driven off, and you're stuck paying for their gas. To avoid this, make sure to always check the hoses before you start. Look for any stretched hoses and trace your hose all the way to your side of the pump to ensure it's connected properly. A quick check can save you from falling victim to this scam.

2. Skimming

One of the most common scams at gas stations is called "skimming." Scammers use small devices that are secretly attached to the card readers on the pumps. These devices are designed to copy your credit card information, and sometimes even your PIN number, without you noticing. The tricky part is that these devices can be hard to spot because they blend in with the regular card reader. However, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself.

• Always check for stickers or seals on the card reader, as gas stations often use them to show that the pump hasn't been tampered with. If you notice anything unusual, like a loose or misaligned card reader, gently pull on it to see if it comes off easily.
• Cover the keypad with your hand when you enter your PIN, which will prevent hidden cameras from capturing it.
• Look for any cracks, scratches, or signs of damage around the card reader, as these could be signs of tampering.

By taking just a few seconds to inspect the pump before you swipe your card, you can avoid falling victim to a skimming scam and keep your personal information safe.

3. A New Twist on Skimming

Many gas stations have started using contactless payment systems to help protect customers from card skimming, a common scam where thieves steal your credit card information. However, scammers are always coming up with new ways to bypass these security measures.

One sneaky trick they use is drilling a hole in the payment screen of the gas pump. This damages the system and causes the pump to switch back to the old swipe payment method, which leaves your card information open to being stolen by a hidden skimming device. When you swipe your card, the skimmer grabs your financial details, and you may not even know it's happening.

If you ever notice a hole or any damage to the payment screen, it's important to report it to the gas station attendants immediately. They can shut down the pump and investigate to make sure no one's information is being stolen. Staying alert and reporting any suspicious damage can help protect you and other customers from falling victim to these scams.

4. Gas Swindling

Some dishonest gas station employees use tricks to scam customers out of their money. One common scam involves tampering with the gas pumps to show false readings. In some cases, the pump will even add extra cents to your total, even when the nozzle isn't even in your tank. Another trick happens when a gas station offers a discount for paying with cash. The pump attendant may secretly press the "credit" button, so customers who are paying with cash end up being charged the higher price meant for credit card payments, without even realizing it. This scam was repeatedly caught on camera by investigators in Long Island, with no one noticing what was going on.

To avoid falling for these tricks, always keep a close eye on the pump as you fill up and be sure you're paying the correct price for your fuel. It's important to stay alert to make sure you're not getting scammed.

5. Purse Snatching

While you're busy pumping gas or paying inside the store, it's easy to forget about your valuables sitting in the car. Unfortunately, thieves only need a few seconds to strike. If your car is unlocked or the window is open, they can quickly grab your purse, phone, or any other items you leave in plain sight.

To avoid this, always make sure to keep your valuables out of view, either by placing them in the trunk or hiding them under a seat. Even more importantly, always lock your car when you're not inside it. If you need to go inside the store to pay, double-check that all the doors are securely locked, and close the windows.

Taking these simple precautions can make a big difference in keeping your personal belongings safe and preventing a thief from taking advantage of your distraction. By staying aware and being careful, you can avoid becoming a target.

Avoiding scams at the gas pump is all about staying alert and being cautious. Taking a few extra seconds to inspect your surroundings can help protect your personal information and belongings. By being aware of common scams and taking simple precautions, you can reduce your chances of falling victim to dishonest tricks at the gas station. Always trust your instincts, and if something feels off, don't hesitate to report it. Staying safe is the key to a smooth and worry-free refueling experience.

References: 'Pump Switching' and Other Gas Station Scams to Avoid at All Costs | Scam Risks You Face at the Gas Station