Police are issuing a warning to students around the country after learning of a new car insurance scam where students can find themselves out of pocket and, sometimes, under arrest.
The warning is particularly relevant to international students after several were targeted in a recent scam in the Sunderland and Northumberland areas. The con takes advantage of students who ask a third person for help to arrange discounted car insurance. Students hand over money and are given a cover note, believing they have legal car insurance. Then, unbeknown to them, the third person cancels the policy within the cancellation period and pockets their money.
Police became aware of this scam when a number of international students were arrested and had their vehicles seized after they were found to be driving without insurance. Police enquiries then uncovered the scam and criminal investigations have been launched. Officers are now issuing a warning to students and are working with Universities to provide support and advice so students don’t fall victim to this sort of crime.
Cumbria Constabulary’s Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Hyde plays an active part in student safety nationally in his role as the patron of the Police Association of Higher Education Liaison Officers (PAHELO).
He said: “This scam is particularly cruel as it tends to target the students who ask for help because they want to ensure they have full legal cover to drive vehicles in the UK.
“Sadly, it has led to some students being arrested and having their vehicles seized – making life particularly hard for students who are getting to know a new area and are strapped for cash. Some of the victims were told of a friend of a friend who could help them arrange their insurance cover at a good price. Now they have been left out of pocket but don’t want to report their fellow students -so may feel like they have nowhere to go.
“Police will investigate these scams when they are reported but our advice to students is to approach your local Students Union or Students Welfare department for advice.
“They will be able to recommend legitimate insurance companies that offer genuine discounts for students and will help you complete the documentation you need to. If someone you don’t know offers to help you secure a great deal in exchange for cash think twice – if the offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
“To drive in Britain you always need to have an insurance certificate – not just a cover note. If you visit the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency section of our UK Government website you can find the information you need to drive safely and legally: www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring."
The warning comes two weeks into Cumbria Constabulary’s Student Safety campaign. For more information or safety advice, please visit www.cumbria.police.uk/students
The warning comes two weeks into Cumbria Constabulary’s Student Safety campaign. For more information or safety advice, please visit www.cumbria.police.uk/students
The warning comes two weeks into Cumbria Constabulary’s Student Safety campaign. For more information or safety advice, please visit www.cumbria.police.uk/students
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