Smart Fuel Theft Detection and Alert System Using IoT for Augmented Consumer Protection at Gas Stations

Abstract

Fuel theft at gas stations has arisen as a unique and deceitful means of defrauding regular Indian consumers, with unscrupulous pump operators selling less petrol than promised at the same price. The objective of this investigation is to create a system that can detect such fraudulent activity and warn the user in a timely manner. The suggested system checks fuel levels during refilling and warns the user if any irregularities are discovered. It also has a capability that detects incoming phone calls, allowing the user to identify calls without relying on Bluetooth connectivity. The system execution is composed of combining an ultrasonic sensor to correctly detect fuel levels, a Node MCU microcontroller for data processing and wireless communication, an LCD display for visual feedback, a buzzer for aural alarms, and an LM358AN which is a low-power dual op-amp for signal conditioning. The outcome of the work uses a telegram bot to take user input, such as projected fuel volumes and uses real-time data to detect and alert users to potential fraud. Furthermore, the system regularly uploads data to the Thing Speak cloud platform, which uses powerful analytics to monitor and detect any irregularities that may occur. The device has an additional feature to improve user experience that detects any incoming calls or messages to the driver’s mobile phone so that the driver does not miss any vital alerts. Overall, all this research aims to aid in detecting unethical fuel pump operators and assist regular individuals in getting the right amount of propellant they have paid for, therefore lessening the ubiquitous issue of fuel theft.