The latest joint investigation from the Met and IFED;
Five people have been arrested across London recently, following a coordinated operation by the City of London Police, the Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED) and the Metropolitan Police Service.
Those arrested include an 18-year-old man and a 21-year-old man from Chafford Hundred, both arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation. They have since been released under investigation. Additionally, a 19-year-old man from Essex, a 22-year-old man from Dagenham and a 26-year-old man from Essex were arrested on suspicion of supplying articles for the use of fraud. They have since been remanded in custody to appear in court in March.
The investigation began after the Metropolitan Police uncovered some fraudulent websites, seizing the databases and taking down and interrogating the domains. This led to the discovery of thousands of fraudulent insurance certificates and suspect details.
IFED’s inquiry uncovered a network selling and supplying spoof vehicle insurance ‘apps’ that drivers could present at the roadside to give the appearance of valid cover. At first glance these apps appear genuine, but they are designed to deceive police officers during traffic stops.
The main perpetrator is believed to be a former Metropolitan Police officer who had previously been dismissed from the force for driving without insurance, highlighting the breadth of individuals involved in the production and use of fraudulent motor insurance apps.
The coordinated enforcement activity in London forms part of a wider UK effort to disrupt the supply chain for these fraudulent services and to identify both the developers and the users of the apps.
Initial enquires suggest the apps may have been used by tens of thousands of drivers across the UK. The consequences are serious for everyone involved. Suppliers of the apps face criminal investigation and potential charges for their offences. Users of the apps can face prosecution for driving without insurance and risk having their vehicles seized by police.
Detective Constable Manveen Arura in the Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED), at City of London Police said:
“Those supplying the apps are working hand in glove with organised criminals. We will dismantle their networks and hold them to account. Thanks to close collaboration between the insurance industry, City of London Police and the Metropolitan Police, suspects have been arrested and the detention of a former Met officer underscores that no one is above the law”
Detective Constable Harry Ingham-Halshaw at the Metropolitan Police said:
“The Metropolitan Police Cyber Crime Unit identified several fraudulent websites spoofing legitimate insurance companies. After interrogating the databases behind the criminal service, we have identified, arrested and dismantled this criminal network. We will continue arresting those responsible, ensuring the safety of London’s roads are maintained”
Motorists are reminded to purchase insurance only from authorised providers and to verify cover through official channels. Insurers and members of the public who suspect fraudulent activity are urged to report it to their insurer or to the police via Report Fraud.
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