Victim of petrol pump fraud? Follow these tips to avoid being cheated at fuel stations

Since petrol pump scams are increasing day by day, here is what you can do to avoid getting conned at petrol pumps.

Petrol and diesel prices are increasing continuously. Rising fuel prices are a concern for everyone and one can't do much about it, but you can save some money by avoiding petrol pump frauds, which occur on a daily basis. At the fuel station, the customers are not given full petrol and they are cheated.

Since petrol pump scams are increasing day by day, here is what you can do to avoid getting conned at petrol pumps.

5 tips to avoid being duped at fuel stations

1. Meter check

Always ensure that the meter is reset to 0 before the attendant starts filling fuel. Keep an eye on the meter at all times while the your vehicle is being refuelled. The attendant may try to block your view to the meter while you are inside the car. It is advisable that you get out of the car and check that the meter is reset. (Representative image)

 

2. Filter paper test

According to the Consumer Protection Act of 1986, petrol pumps are required to keep filter papers stocked. If a consumer asks for a filter paper test to check whether the fuel is adulterated or not, then the petrol pump can't deny them.

All you have to do is put a few drops of petrol on the filter paper and if it evaporates without leaving a stain then you can be sure that the petrol is pure. In case the petrol evaporates leaving behind some stains then it indicates that the petrol is adulterated. You can avoid getting conned this way. (Representative image)

 

3. Short-fuelling

At times, customers become victims of short fuelling at petrol pumps. A common method pumps use to scam motorists is filling up a lower amount 'by mistake'. For example, say you have asked for fuel worth Rs 1,500. The attendant fills up only Rs 500 worth and after being pointed out his mistake goes ahead and pretends to reset the machine and fills up to Rs 1,000. All the while, you could be under the impression that you received Rs 1,500 worth of fuel. (Representative image)

 

4. Refuel at a reputed petrol pump

It is always advisable to refuel at a reputed petrol pump near your house and workplace, unless you need to refuel urgently. Request for a printed bill after the payment is made. It is advisable that you make payments with credit and debit cards only. (Representative image)

 

5. Quantity test

If you doubt the quantity, ask for a measuring test. Petrol pumps usually have a 5-litre jar supplied by the Weights and Measures Department. Use this to fill up the can yourself and if anything less than the amount fills up, you can report the pump to the police. (Representative image)