It seems catfishing has entered the world of insurance.
Devon Live has noted that several reports of people responding to fake insurance brokers on social media have reached Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. In many cases, victims losing contact with the fraudsters once money has been transferred.
“In other cases, insurance has initially been purchased on behalf of the victim only to be immediately cancelled with the insurer; this means that bogus brokers can forward voided paperwork or email concerning insurance cover to the unsuspecting victim and pocket any refunded insurance fees,” read the alert issued by Devon and Cornwall Police.
The public is advised to contact the insurer directly for verification and to use the Financial Conduct Authority’s website to check if an insurance broker is authorised.
While many genuine insurers and brokers operate on social media platforms, the police said it is good practice to conduct further research regarding any company offering insurance services, especially when the initial advert or contact is via social media.
“If a broker claims to be accredited with a good practice organisation, don’t just take their word for it,” it added. “Be sure to contact the respective organisation directly and check their database or make an enquiry.”
Related stories:
Warnings over “dramatic” rise in fraudulent claims
New data regulation could cripple insurers’ counter-fraud efforts – law firm
.jpg)
