Latest scam at the gas pump

[genxlib]

Stopping to get gas at the gas station closest to work this morning, I noted the price at $3.49. this was already about $.15 higher than a similar cluster of stations less than a mile down the road but convenience has its price.

But I pull up to the pump and there seems to be an error. The pump is showing $4.39 for regular. Assuming a mistake, I go insideto report what seems to be an error.

Nope. 90c price difference for credit. Of course they didn't have the decency to post that on the road side sign. Just hoping to fool some people who don't notice.

I called the clerk out on it but he was just mortified. Said he agreed. It wasn't him. It was the company.

I bailed and went to the cheaper station down the street and paid $3.25

I rarely use cash for anything but gas is probably the most obvious choice for credit to me. Primarily so I don't have to go inside. I like to fill up my tank to limit stops so it prevents two trips inside. I don't mind paying a small premium to cover the fees but this is just a scam.

I hope this station enjoys its little windfall. I have spent hundreds of dollars a year at that station which I will never use again. Screw 'em

[Think. Again.]

1. Do you mind if I ask which brand station was pulling that scam?

[genxlib]

2. It is a Shell Station

But I suspect it is independently owned

[John Shaft]

3. Why would you even bother the cashier with this?

They have a low paying job they probably hate with a passion and ZERO control over policies and prices. They just work there. It isn't their fault.

Just go to the next place.

The only thing you should ever say to a cashier is hi, please, thank you, or nothing. Or thank them for their service.

[Bettie]

5. Asking if it is an error

isn't "bothering" them. It's asking a legitimate question.

The poster doesn't indicate they yelled at the cashier or anything, just asked a question and left.

[John Shaft]

7. "I called the clerk out on it . . ."

doesn't sound like an innocent polite question. OP even said the cashier was mortified.

I'm responding to what the OP wrote, not the contents of your head.

[Bettie]

8. They also said they went inside to report what was

probably an error....I just got up and have cats walking across my keyboard (I have not given them treats yet, they are going to starve without them, obviously), so I probably missed the sentence on "calling out".

So, I'll say asking the question is 100% legit, being hostile to someone who has no control over it isn't.

[John Shaft]

9. Agreed

Last edited Mon Aug 19, 2024, 09:42 AM - Edit history (1)

I've been aware of different cash/credit pricing for at least 50 years, that's why I wouldn't bother a front line essential worker about it. It's something relatively easy to figure out without involving someone who has no effective power other than to handle the transaction.

And I'm jealous that you have more than one cat: I can only handle my big boy kitty. Been thinking about getting him a baby though.

[Bettie]

10. I have six

because shelters won't take abandoned ones.....three of them are over 15 or older.

[genxlib]

12. Fair point

But I think you are reading too much into.

I did not express any anger. First I just asked if it was really intended. Then I said that isn't right and really should be posted better. He agreed. That's it.

[Bettie]

4. And almost everyone uses a debit card

and probably don't notice until it's too late.

Assholes.

[Johnny2X2X]

6. That is illegal

Report them to your state's attorney general, that's fraud and not allowed.

[yagotme]

11. THAT is price gouging. 3-4% credit card fee doesn't compute to $.90 a gallon.

$.09 or a bit more, yes, not that much. Maybe manager doesn't do decimals well...
(BTW, I'm against this practice.)

[Happy Hoosier]

13. The only place I use cash is tha Farmer's market....

... we buy some baked goods from a Mennonite family there. They are are our only "usual" that won't take a card.

I like not have a pocket full of change and having to make trips to the ATM for folding money on a weekly basis.