Fleet operators are being urged to tighten fuel security in response to rising petrol and diesel prices.
FleetCheck, a fleet software company, has warned that fuel-related crime is likely to increase in today’s climate, especially as the war in Iran has caused a sudden price jump affecting petrol and diesel.
This pattern has played out before during periods of high fuel prices, such as the war in Iran.
Barrie Wilson, strategic relationship manager at FleetCheck, said: “There are a number of ways fleets can be affected by fuel crime, but essentially, the risks fall into two categories – forms of fraud committed by employees and theft from parked company vehicles.
“These require very different solutions, but both can be expected to potentially increase following the quite dramatic price rises we have seen recently.”
Mr Wilson explained that fuel fraud by employees typically involves either purchasing excess fuel or siphoning it from company vehicles.
He said: “To detect this, it is essential that distances covered and miles per gallon are accurately recorded and assessed – something that can be done easily using fleet software.”
He also advised fleets to remind employees that serious fuel theft will lead not only to dismissal but also police involvement.
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Mr Wilson noted that theft from vehicles can occur even with modern fuel systems and locked caps, and that the damage caused during theft attempts is often more costly than the fuel stolen.
He urged drivers to be particularly mindful of where they park overnight.
