Petrol Pump Scams: Getting Less Petrol At Fuel Pumps? How To Know If You Are Being Scammed And Where To Complaint

Petrol Pump Scams: Ever since digitalisation has seen a significant rise in India, the common man has also been forced to face the downside of this rapid digitalisation. Fraudulent activities such as credit card fraud, insurance fraud, email scams, bank loan frauds, investment scams, identity theft and money laundering have become more prevalent. In addition to these online scams, the common man has also had to lose their hard earned money at petrol pumps in India. Petrol pumps have been duping their customers in multiple ways. Therefore, to help you out and create some awareness, here are some of the most frequent frauds occuring at petrol stations. 

ALSO READ: Volkswagen Virtus vs Skoda Slavia: Which Sedan Is Better Choice For Your Money?

Short Fuelling

Be careful when refueling your vehicle to avoid a common fraud called short fueling. This happens when you ask for a specific amount of fuel but the gas station attendant doesn't reset the meter. For instance, if you request Rs 1,000 worth of petrol and the meter is already at Rs 200, you might end up paying for Rs 1,000 but only get Rs 800 worth of fuel. Always watch the meter while refueling to make sure you get what you pay for.

Fuel Density 

Petrol pump scams involve manipulating fuel density to make customers pay for more fuel than received. This fraud can be successfully completed even if the density appears correct on the meter. To avoid this, customers should be aware and check the fuel density indicated on the meter. Apart from checking the meter, one should also pay close attention to the fuel flow. If the fuel is flowing faster, it may indicate lower density and potential fraud.

E-Chip Integrated Into Fuel-Dispensing Machines 

This fraud involves the installation of a chip in the fuel dispensing machine that ensures 3 per cent less fuel is dispensed than what the meter indicates. So, if you pay for Rs 1,000 worth of petrol, the meter shows the full amount but you actually receive petrol worth only Rs 970. The receipt generated will still reflect the full amount. This manipulation is a tweak made by installing an electronic chip directly in the machine itself.

ALSO READ: Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024: Royal Enfield Showcases Flex-Fuel Powered Classic 350; Details

What To Do If You Are Scammed At Petrol Pumps?

You can start by asking for the complaint book at the petrol pump and locally register your complaint. Every oil company provides a complaint register book at each station, which they review during audits and inspections. Do not let the attendant or owner/manager convince you to not do it, insist on registering your complaint. Additionally, you can file a complaint online through the oil company's website.