New findings show over 2,200 people in London are believed to have been victim of crash for cash moped scams in two years, and thousands more may have unknowingly been targeted.
* The on-the-rise scam involves moped drivers deliberately crashing into oncoming traffic. * Nearly every UK motor insurer has received bogus claims, collectively valued at £27 million. * Road users are urged to know the warning signs and report evidence to Cheatline.
Londoners are being warned of a widespread network of crash for cash fraudsters on mopeds who are targeting innocent road users, and are thought to have attempted £27 million worth of bogus claims (nearly £40,000 a day).
A multi-agency investigation led by the Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB), City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED), and several insurers, found an estimated 2,250 people in London were victims of crash for cash moped scams in the past two years.
Many of the suspected fraudsters are believed to be couriers delivering items such as take-aways and are predominantly targeting drivers in North London’s most affluent areas.
As there is little awareness of the tactics being used by crash for cash moped scammers, it is believed thousands more people could have unknowingly been targeted. As a result, IFB and IFED have launched an urgent appeal to help road users learn the warning signs of the scam and report evidence to Cheatline online or via 0800 422 0421.
Ursula Jallow, Director at IFB, said:
“Crash for cash moped scams have become epidemic in our capital. These dangerous fraudsters are driving head-first into unsuspecting motorists, leaving countless victims terrified and insurers facing millions of pounds in bogus claims. We’re collaborating closely with IFED and the insurance industry to bring every one of these reckless fraudsters to justice. We encourage all Londoners to watch out for the unique signs of crash for cash moped scams and to report any evidence to our Cheatline.”
Detective Chief Inspector Tom Hill, at City of London Police’s IFED, added:
“Crash for cash fraudsters have little regard for the lasting impact that their actions can have on victims, so it is concerning to see that over 2,200 people have been targeted by moped drivers in just two years.
“We urge road users to learn the tell-tale signs that can precede these collisions, as knowing them can help protect you from falling victim. If you suspect you have been targeted, report it to Cheatline.”
Matthew Stevens, Anti-Fraud Director at Hastings Direct, commented:
“This type of fraud not only has a negative impact on insurance premiums, it is also very dangerous. It is a clear demonstration that these criminals have no regard for public safety and no concern for innocent and unsuspecting road users, who are often left traumatised following these incidents. At Hastings, we are working tirelessly with the Insurance Fraud Bureau, the police and other insurance companies to help tackle this and all types of insurance fraud. My advice to motorists is to report any concerns about a collision of this type to your insurance provider and to get the details of any bystanders who may act as witnesses.”