Ghost brokers targeting unaware drivers
Drivers have been warned of a rising number of ghost brokers offering fake insurance deals at knock-down prices.
Aviva identified nearly 7,000 cases last year alone of ghost brokers targeting drivers on social media, forums, and other online platforms.
Tom Banks, Go.Compare car insurance spokesperson, said: “There are a few different ways a ghost broker can operate. They might pretend to take out a policy in your name and supply you with fake documents to convince you everything is above board, while your policy doesn’t exist.
“Or they could actually take out the cover on your behalf, but alter your details, such as your address and driving history, to make the price of the policy cheaper.
“By charging you more than the quoted price, they can pocket the difference. It’s only when you go to make a claim that you might find out your details are incorrect, and that your claim is going to be rejected.
“Another trick ghost brokers play is to take out your car insurance policy legitimately, but cancel it soon after. This leaves them with your money, and you without cover.”
Top tips
CarGurus has now compiled a check-list for drivers to help protect themselves against these scams:
- Question the price if it sounds too good to be true
- Consider the contact methods they’re using to make contact
- Look them up on the FCA Register
- Check documents for any errors and inconsistencies.
