"Ghost brokers" are preying on young drivers with cheap car insurance deals that seem too good to be true. These scammers promise insurers for a fraction of the cost, but the reality is they are selling fake or invalid certificates.
Young people, who are already struggling to afford their first car and often face huge premiums, are being targeted by these thieves. According to Aviva, drivers aged 17-25 are the main targets, with some victims losing an average of £2,000 due to ghost broking scams.
These scammers will use social media ads or fake websites that look like legitimate insurance companies to sell their worthless policies. They'll ask for personal details and payment by bank transfer, often charging a fee for their services – which they pocket while making up the difference between the stolen policy and the real cost.
If you receive an ad promising cheap car insurance on social media, be wary. Legitimate brokers won't direct you to their site; they'll always have you visit a legitimate website. Always check if the broker is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority before buying from them.
If you think you've fallen victim to ghost broking, contact the Insurance Fraud Bureau's CheatLine or Action Fraud for help. Reaching out to your insurance company can also provide clarity on what information they hold about you and whether your policy is valid.
Young people, who are already struggling to afford their first car and often face huge premiums, are being targeted by these thieves. According to Aviva, drivers aged 17-25 are the main targets, with some victims losing an average of £2,000 due to ghost broking scams.
These scammers will use social media ads or fake websites that look like legitimate insurance companies to sell their worthless policies. They'll ask for personal details and payment by bank transfer, often charging a fee for their services – which they pocket while making up the difference between the stolen policy and the real cost.
If you receive an ad promising cheap car insurance on social media, be wary. Legitimate brokers won't direct you to their site; they'll always have you visit a legitimate website. Always check if the broker is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority before buying from them.
If you think you've fallen victim to ghost broking, contact the Insurance Fraud Bureau's CheatLine or Action Fraud for help. Reaching out to your insurance company can also provide clarity on what information they hold about you and whether your policy is valid.