Reply #78: So . . . you think that the small business owner running your local

[ET Awful]

service station should have no means of preventing theft by people pumping more gas than their bank account can actually cover?

If you can find another way to reduce or eliminate theft, so be it. BUT, I'm actually trying to be fair to both sides, you are not.

I understand why the retailer must do such holds. I also understand ways to avoid being hit by such holds and understand how inconvenient they can be.

I believe the retailer has a right to defend himself (or herself) against theft. I believe the customer has the right to defend himself or herself against said holds and fees.

I've listed several ways that both the retailer and the customer can be safe and avoid the various pitfalls and hazards. You have merely attacked me for saying it.

The only other practical solution is to have you (a) enter the exact amount you wish to purchase at the pump before the charge is run; (b) eliminate pay at the pump, have you pre-pay all purchases and run the charge at that time; or (c) make all stations full service where the merchant pumps the gas and you pay for the exact amount following the pumping.

The merchant has as much right to defend themselves against potential theft as you do to be irate about the hold.