The Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) has recently launched its Don't Chance Fraud campaign, to highlight the serious consequences of turning to fraud and landing a record on the Insurance Fraud Register (IFR).

The campaign follows a 17% rise in people being added to the IFR and new YouGov findings which suggest more people than ever could be susceptible to turning to fraud amid the cost-of-living crisis. 

Ben Fletcher, Director at the IFB said, “As millions struggle because of the cost-of-living crisis, the sad reality is more people could be tempted to chance insurance fraud and face the serious consequences of having a record on the Insurance Fraud Register.”

“There are no winners when it comes to fraud. If someone intentionally lies on an insurance application or claim, they’ll be put on the Insurance Fraud Register which can deny them access to essential insurance services for years to come. They could face criminal prosecution. Plus, the added costs from fraud unfairly make insurance more expensive for everyone else.”

“I know it’s easier said than done, but if anyone is struggling to make ends meet then they must seek financial support and look at how they can best manage their finances. The insurance industry really wants to help its customers at this challenging time, so please reach out to the insurer if struggling with payments. Whatever the next steps may be, don’t let fraud be one of them, it only makes things worse.”

Top five reasons someone is added to the IFR

• Submitting fake no-claims-discount (NCD) documentation;
• Fronting - which is when someone puts themselves down as a named driver for a vehicle for which they are actually the owner/main driver;
• Exaggerating damage or injury on what would otherwise be a legitimate claim;
• Claiming for lost items which are later proven to be in possession;
• 'Crash for Cash’ scams (staged motor collisions).