Paid Ad Spoofing

In a hurry to get in touch with your insurer? Need help now? We know an online search is easier than digging out your policy documents, especially if you are on the move.

Take a moment to make sure you know who you are getting in touch with. Scammers will intentionally mimic your insurers branding and will use vague terms both online and on the phone to make it sound like you've gotten through to the real deal.

The consequences? Bigger than you'd think!

How the scam works?

Paid ad spoofing involves scammers paying for ads on search engines and social media platforms. These ads, while made to look legitimate, direct users to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information, money, or install malware on their devices.

Car insurance spoofers specifically look to take advantage of their victims who have often recently been involved in a car accident or collision. In the heat of the moment clicking through an unsuspecting ad, victims are then instructed to sign a contract with the scammers, whilst still believing they are dealing with their insurer. Individuals are then liable for whatever the fraudster thinks they can get away with.

Once trapped, charges start to build (increasing daily) and the victims own insurer is unlikely to be able to assist them until they pay off the charges to release their vehicle.

How can you prevent yourself from falling for a spoofed ad?

• Is it an ad?
  Does it have the word Ad or Sponsored next to the search results? It is unlikely that your insurer will be advertising their emergency services or contact details, so take a moment and scroll down past the ads to the actual search results.
• Verify the website:
  Always double-check the website URL before entering any personal information. Legitimate car insurance websites will have secure, verified URLs, often starting with "https://" and featuring a padlock icon in the address bar.
• Save details in your phone:
  For important phone numbers (like your insurers accident line) - have these saved in your phone, so you're not desperately searching for them when in need.
• Use official apps:
  Whenever possible, use official mobile apps provided by your insurance company. These apps are generally more secure than browsing through a web browser.
• Educate yourself:
  Stay informed about common online scams and phishing techniques. Awareness is your best defence against falling victim to spoofed ads.
• Install security software:
  Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to protect your devices from malicious software. Keep these programs and your operating system updated to ensure optimal security.
• Report suspicious ads:
  Report any suspicious or misleading ads you come across to the CheatLine and the respective platform (such as Google or Facebook). Reporting helps in taking down these deceptive advertisements.

What are the consequences of clicking on a spoofed site?

• Financial loss:
  Clicking on a spoofed ad can cause substantial monetary damage that you are contractually responsible for. As they are a third party, excesses you've agreed to with your insurer do not apply. However, whilst this may seem like a saving, you will very likely be liable to reimburse these companies the premium prices charged for the hire car, recovery, storage & repairs if the claim against the other drivers insurance fails, making your excess appear cheap in comparison.
• Personal data theft:
  Spoofed sites often collect personal information such as your name, address, phone number, and date of birth. Whilst not always the case, this data can then be misused for various fraudulent activities, including opening fake accounts or committing identity fraud. Would you trust a company advertising in this way to safeguard your data appropriately? 
• Malware installation:
  Some spoofed sites distribute malware that can infect your device, whether intentionally or due to poor construction. Malware can damage your files, steal sensitive information, or even render your device unusable.
• Compromised Security:
  Clicking on deceptive sites can compromise your device's security, making it vulnerable to future cyberattacks and data breaches.

Being vigilant while browsing the internet is crucial, especially when dealing with sensitive matters like car insurance. By staying informed, verifying website authenticity, and following best practices, you can protect yourself from the consequences of clicking on spoofed ads and ensure a safer online experience.

Report insurance scams to the IFB CheatLine (powered by CrimeStoppers) on 0800 422 0421 or online. It's free, anonymous and completely confidential.

IFB have worked closely with Aviva to increase awareness of this scam type.