Crash for cash scams becoming more aggressive
Organised crash for cash fraud is increasing with targeted victims pressured into immediate payments, according to the Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED).
Crash for cash is a type of insurance fraud where individuals deliberately stage or induce car collisions that form the basis of fraudulent insurance claims for financial gain.
IFED has investigated more than £25.3m in suspected crash for cash fraud cases in the last five years, with about 75% involving staged or induced collisions.
Working with dash cam providers Nextbase, it is now warning that these scams are becoming more aggressive, involving roadside data theft and collusion with repair networks, putting people’s physical safety, finances and identity at risk.
Growing problem
Detective chief inspector Nik Jethwa, head of IFED, said: “Crash for cash fraud is a growing problem and criminals are becoming more aggressive in how they carry out these schemes. We want the public to be more aware than ever of the tactics being used, which put innocent road users at risk. Please take extra care at difficult junctions and roundabouts and follow our safety advice if you suspect something is wrong.
“There is also a real risk of identity theft, so consider the potential consequences if you are involved in a collision. IFED will continue to pursue those who exploit vulnerable people.”
Bryn Brooker, head of road safety at Nextbase, added: “Crash for cash scams rely on uncertainty. If there is no independent evidence, drivers will find it difficult to prove their innocence for an incident that happened in a matter of seconds.
“Video footage has been proven to help by providing an impartial and irrefutable record of events. That’s why we always encourage drivers to keep any footage after a collision and share it with their insurer or police if requested.”
What to look out for:
- Moped attacks on lone drivers. Riders target single occupants from blind spots or while the driver is distracted. The rider may throw their moped down, fake injury and record the scene to pressure for payment
- On the spot data theft. Criminals ask to photograph or copy driving licences at the roadside, creating a serious identity theft risk
- Dishonest garages may inflate repair bills as part of organised fraud, turning a small incident into a costly claim.
How to keep yourself safe:
- Install a dashcam with clear, timestamped footage to protect yourself and provide objective evidence if something happens
- Do not allow your driving licence to be photographed. The law states you only need to provide your name, address, vehicle registration and insurance details. You do not need to handover or let someone copy your licence
- Do not pay cash or give your bank details at the roadside
- Contact your insurer promptly and keep them updated about any incident.
