Experts from the consumer protection department of Roskachestvo have shared how fraud can occur at gas stations, outlining several deceptive tricks used by dishonest workers. The goal of these schemes is to reduce the amount of fuel delivered to the customer while the pump still appears to be functioning normally.
One common method involves tampering with the fill hose. A small hole can be drilled in the hose or a valve placed on the top. When fuel is being dispensed, air is drawn through the opening into the hose. This air column creates a misread or stalling effect that prevents the full amount of fuel from flowing into the vehicle tank. In some cases, this means only a portion of the fuel requested ends up in the tank, with the rest returning to the storage system. The result is a customer who believes they are filling up, but the tank receives less fuel than expected.
In other incidents, workers may avoid visible tampering and rely on finishing touches during the final moments of refueling. With a deft, nearly imperceptible motion, the operator twists or momentarily disconnects or constricts the filling hose. This subtle maneuver limits the amount of fuel that passes through and leaves a small reserve of fuel inside the hose, which can be counted as an extra loss for the customer when the nozzle is removed. The end result is less fuel delivered than paid for, often without an obvious sign to the driver.
Roskachestvo emphasizes that awareness is the first line of defense. Customers should pay close attention to the behavior of the pump and the nozzle, and they should be cautious if the pump action feels irregular, the hose appears altered, or the meter shows unusual fluctuations. If something seems off, it is wise to stop refueling, step away from the pump, and inspect the nozzle area for signs of tampering. Inquiries about the pump’s calibration or the station’s compliance with safety standards are reasonable steps to take in the moment. A quick check from a staff member or a manager can deter potential fraud. [Source: Roskachestvo consumer protection guidelines]
Additional tips include requesting a fresh read from the pump, observing the total cost on the display as fuel is dispensed, and comparing it with the amount of fuel in the tank once refueling completes. If the amount of fuel seems inconsistent with the price or if the transaction finishes with an unexpectedly low quantity, customers should document the incident and report it to the station management or appropriate consumer protection authorities. Keeping a record, such as the receipt and a short note about any unusual pump behavior, is helpful for reporting. [Attribution: Roskachestvo safety advisories]
For those who suspect foul play, it is important to act calmly and methodically. Do not confront the worker at the scene in a way that escalates tension. Instead, request a supervisor, take a clear photo of the pump display and hose area, and note the exact pump number and timestamp. If possible, pay by card rather than cash to retain a transaction trail. Retain the receipt and contact details for follow-up. The consumer protection bodies can investigate and verify whether the pump is delivering the correct quantity of fuel and whether the station adheres to national safety and metering standards. [Investigation reference: Roskachestvo consumer protection recommendations]
Readers are reminded that not all irregularities indicate deliberate fraud; some may result from minor maintenance issues or calibration errors. Nevertheless, staying vigilant helps protect against loss and encourages stations to maintain transparent practices. For more information, readers can explore Roskachestvo materials on common refueling scams and protective steps. “We were told about the ways to cheat at gas stations. Don’t get caught!” [Cited guidance: Roskachestvo awareness campaign]
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