The Insurance Fraud Bureau has identified Milton Keynes as a target area for 'Crash for Cash' scammers.
"Crash for Cash" is a term used to describe a fraudulent insurance claim for a motor collision, the Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) explain.
Fraudsters often cause physical collisions with innocent motorists in a bid to profit from fraudulent insurance claims. Scammers most often slam on their brakes at busy junctions and roundabouts, meaning that the driver behind is unable to stop in time.
Some scammers will even use an accomplice, according to the insurance fraud specialists, these accomplices will drives erratically in front of the scammers, diverting the victims suspicions and moving the blame away.
They may also encourage drivers to pull out of a side view in order to cause a crash.
In a recent warning, the IFB has located 10 new areas in the UK being targetted by these scammers - including Milton Keynes. They also suggest that gangs are targeting villages.
Over the past 12 months we've found dangerous #CrashforCash gangs are increasingly spreading out from scam hotspots to cause collisions in unsuspecting areas.
— Insurance Fraud Bureau (@TheIFB) June 14, 2022
Today we're revealing the top 10 new towns and cities that are emerging as targets: https://t.co/PhqH32bHfB pic.twitter.com/NjDj0bqy3E
How can I avoid becoming a victim to this scam?
- Keep a good distance
- Stay alert
- Know the signs
The IFB says that the three key signs include the driver or their passengers appearing unphased after the collision, the driver or their passengers appearing to exaggerate injuries and/or pre-written insurance information is handed over.
Find out more about Crash for cash scams and how to report here.
