Pump switching is a gas station scam that has become a growing trend. The scam works like this: a scammer approaches a driver who is pumping gas and offers to help them pump gas. The scammer is often very aggressive and refuses to take no for an answer. After the driver leaves, the scammer does not return the nozzle to the pump and instead uses the active transaction to pump gas for other drivers while demanding cash for gas. The scammer then keeps the cash and leaves the station before the police arrive.

Police warn that anyone who is experiencing pump switching should call 911. Victims of the scam may not realize that the crime has occurred for days or even weeks after the incident. To protect themselves, drivers are advised to always hang up their own gas nozzle or hit "end transaction" on the pumps keypad. Police also recommend that people print a receipt at the pump or obtain one from the office as proof of purchase.