What should you verify at gas pumps to avoid being a victim of fraud?

Verifying the certification of gas pumps is crucial in avoiding fraud because certified pumps have been inspected for accuracy and safety by regulatory agencies. When a pump is certified, it means that it has passed specific tests ensuring that it accurately dispenses the amount of fuel you are paying for. Uncertified pumps could potentially dispense less fuel or have devices that manipulate the amount charged, resulting in financial loss for consumers.

While keeping pump handles clean may contribute to hygiene, it does not protect against fraud. Discounts on fuel can be attractive but are not necessarily linked to the integrity of the pump itself. Asking attendants for verification could lead to helpful information, yet it does not guarantee the accuracy of the fuel being dispensed. Therefore, checking for the certification of pumps is the best practice to ensure the fuel quantity and pricing are legitimate.