Public urged to watch out for moped scams

The public is being urged to watch out for reckless moped scammers who are deliberately crashing into oncoming traffic to make bogus claims, as new insights show that over 4,000 people have been targeted, leading to fraudulent claims worth a total of £70m in fraud.

The scam is widespread across London, and reports show the dangerous activity is rising in Croydon and South West London, which is having a devastating impact on communities.

The Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) and City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED), who are investigating the issue with the insurance industry, have revealed five top tips to help the public avoid these moped scams. 

Ursula Jallow, Director at the IFB, said: “The scale and impact of moped scams is unprecedented and has grown to become one of the largest, most complex Crash for Cash investigations we’ve ever seen.

“Thousands of people have been targeted, and these shameless scammers’ tactics are becoming increasingly aggressive. For instance, we've found women who are driving alone or with their children, are being targeted more.

“Everyone should stay alert to the signs of moped scams and report it to our confidential CheatLine. Evidence can not only help to bring those responsible to justice, but it can also help to protect victims from having fraudulent insurance claims being made against them.”

Detective Chief Inspector Tom Hill, from the City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED), said:

“Moped drivers are deliberately crashing into other vehicles with the purpose of gaining compensation from insurance companies. The value of the claims that can be lodged for repairs, personal injury and replacement vehicles makes this an incredibly lucrative opportunity for fraudsters.  

“If you witness or are involved in a collision and suspect it is Crash for Cash fraud, gather as much information as possible. This could be the make and model of the moped, its number plate or the clothing that the driver is wearing. These details could be invaluable in disproving a fraudulent claim. Report the incident as soon as possible to the Insurance Fraud Bureau’s CheatLine.”

The evolving nature of moped scams

Incidents of moped scams have been reported across London boroughs, including in Barnet, Brent, Camden, Enfield, Hackney, Haringey, Islington, and Kensington and Chelsea. More recently, Croydon, Hammersmith and Fulham, and Lambeth have seen a rise in the issue.

Moped scammers are mostly targeting Londoners, however it’s possible the criminal activity could also occur in other parts of the UK where road users are less suspecting of the activity.

The fraudsters will often intimidate victims to try and get them to admit fault of a collision. And in some recent cases, as an alternative to making a claim, they may even try to pressure victims into handing over cash. Those considered to be more vulnerable are more likely to be targeted.

The impact on victims can be traumatising and they may not realise they’ve been scammed until long after the incident, often when in discussion with their insurer.  

The IFB has found over 4,000 people have been targeted by a moped scam within the last three years, following an analysis of fraudulent claims received by 21 insurers.

Five top tips to stay vigilant

  • Look out.

Be vigilant of anyone on a moped (or motorcycle) who is lingering unnecessarily or trying to hide out of sight, at the end or sides of roads or behind parked vehicles.

  • Know the signs.

The moped scammer will drive head-on into their victim and may then throw their moped down and even drop to the floor to fake an injury, before taking photos of the incident.

  • Watch out for accomplices.

Many of the moped scammers work with an accomplice to act as a witness and help facilitate the fraudulent activity. They might also use a van to obscure the victim’s view.

  • Collect information.

If targeted, it’s important to collect as much info about the incident as possible, including details of the other road user, any witnesses, photographs and recordings (local CCTV or dashcam footage).

  • Report it.

If someone thinks they’ve been targeted in a Crash for Cash moped scam, they should tell their insurer and contact their local police force. Evidence of the scam should be reported to IFB’s confidential CheatLine service via an online form, or the phoneline which is powered by CrimeStoppers, at 0800 422 0421