Fuel Fraud Scandal: How Gas Stations Stole Millions Using High-Tech Schemes

One of the largest fraud schemes targeting thousands of customers using advanced technology has been uncovered after months of investigation by Greece’s equivalent of the FBI. The staggering numbers behind the tampered fuel pumps have shocked authorities and consumers alike. Over 224 gas stations were found stealing from their customers, resulting in losses exceeding €100 million. These stations delivered between 10% to 30% less fuel than what customers paid for. Two legitimate companies that installed software on these tampered pumps reportedly collected €100,000 monthly from gas station owners as part of the scheme. Investigators conducted searches at two company offices, 44 involved gas stations, and seven homes, leading to the arrest of 61 individuals, including key members of two criminal organizations. A total of 35 additional suspects are also under investigation. The scheme utilized specialized illegal software programs that communicated with fuel pumps, bypassing legal monitoring systems while enabling covert fuel deliveries without issuing tax receipts. This ‘smart program’ was installed on gas station computers with unique security keys to avoid detection by regulatory authorities. It allowed station owners to set the percentage of fuel withheld per pump (typically 10-30%). Economic investigations revealed money laundering through a front-operated gas station owned by one member of the organization. Another criminal group used USB sticks to install similar software, allowing remote adjustments and deactivation if payments weren’t made. Authorities seized over 100 computer units, eight luxury vehicles, one van, and €520,000 during raids. Thirty-four stations were identified with active illegal programs, and ten had their operating licenses revoked for two years. Estimated consumer losses exceed €100 million.