Northlake Police Warn of Gasoline Pump Screw Scam

Northlake police warned on June 2, 2026, about a gasoline pump scam they call a "screw scam." Scammers jam a small screw into the nozzle cradle, and a customer who drives off before the pump resets can leave a card tied to an active transaction.

Northlake Police Department warning

The Northlake Police Department said the screw can stop the lever from closing when the nozzle is hung back up. In that situation, the pump can keep treating the transaction as if fueling is still underway while someone else uses the same pump.

Police said customers should look at the cradle before fueling to make sure it is clear of screws. They also said drivers should wait until the screen resets, or until it asks whether they want a receipt or returns to $0.00, before leaving.

Steps before you leave

Northlake police said customers should listen for the nozzle to click back into place and shut off. They also advised drivers to print their receipt to verify the final total and to politely decline help from strangers who offer to hang the nozzle up.

If a customer spots a jammed pump, police said not to touch it and to notify the station attendant immediately. The attendant can lock down the pump.

Charges and complaints

Police said a thief waiting nearby can then fill a tank while the pump continues charging the previous user’s card. If someone believes they were a victim, Northlake police said to contact the department and their bank or credit card company if unauthorized charges appear.

CBS News Chicago reported that similar scams have been described as social media hoaxes in the past and said it had reached out to Northlake police about what prompted the alert. The warning leaves customers with one clear step at the pump: check the cradle, watch the screen, and do not leave until the transaction has ended.