Gas Pump Scam - Nozzle Switching - How to Protect Yourself

A growing "pump-switching" scam involves criminals approaching drivers, offering to help fuel their car, and then improperly hanging up the nozzle to keep the transaction active on the victim's card. Scammers often use a small screw in the nozzle cradle to prevent it from resetting to "$0.00," allowing them to fill their own vehicles or others' vehicles at your expense.

How the Scam Works

The "Helpful" Stranger: A stranger offers to pump your gas, often targeting elderly individuals, and insists on returning the nozzle to the pump.
The Screw Method: Scammers wedge a small screw into the nozzle cradle so the machine does not fully register the nozzle has been returned, keeping your credit card active.
Immediate Fuel Theft: After you drive away, the scammer (or a partner) fills up their own vehicle, sometimes charging hundreds of dollars to the previous user's card.
Target Areas: The scam is spreading across the US, with reports often occurring in areas with high gas prices.

How to Protect Yourself

Decline Assistance: Never allow a stranger to handle the gas nozzle or pump your gas.
Verify the Display: Always ensure the pump screen shows "$0.00" before you swipe your card and again after you hang up the nozzle.
Check the Cradle: Check the nozzle holder for any foreign objects, like a small screw, that prevent it from resetting.
Get a Receipt: Always print a receipt to ensure the transaction has formally closed.
Monitor Statements: Check your bank and credit card statements frequently for unauthorized charges.

In addition to this scam, be aware of card skimmers—small devices placed on or inside card readers that steal your payment information.