We’re car insurance experts – find out how to avoid latest con from fraudsters demanding cash at the roadside
The Insurance Fraud Bureau and the City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED) has released a video highlighting a new motoring scam that could cost innocent motorists hundreds of pounds.
Insurance fraud is a growing problem, with the Fraud Bureau warning drivers to beware of ‘ClipforCash’ scams – a new con where fraudsters accuse innocent motorists of clipping their wing mirror and then demand cash up front.
The video, posted across social media, opens by telling viewers not to fall for the racket, before explaining how it all works.
A typical scenario would be that you’re driving down a street and hear an object hit your car.
Another driver behind then signals you to pull over.
They then claim that you hit their wing mirror and demand cash upfront – using their already damaged mirror as ‘evidence’ of the collision.
The fraudster usually demands that the victim hands over cash instantly – which could be as much as £200 – or pressures them into visiting a cashpoint.
The Bureau advises that money should never be offered at the scene of a road traffic collision – no matter if the incident is genuine or not.
Instead, drivers should swap insurance details as legally required, or call the police if you feel there is an imminent risk of danger.
Anyone thinking they have been targeted by such a scam should tell their insurer and local police force, and report their concerns to the IFB’s Cheatline and Action Fraud.
Some comments on social media unfortunately highlighted that people have already fallen victim to the roadside swindle.
Twitter user Ben said: “Yes this happened to me. Only realised afterwards when I pieced it all together and felt so stupid afterwards.”