Insurance Fraud and Online Scam Awareness
The Connecticut Insurance Department (CID) is reminding consumers to stay alert to the ongoing risk of insurance-related fraud and online scams. Fraudulent emails, text messages, and online communications are increasingly used to try to obtain personal and financial information.
Scammers may pose as legitimate organizations and often use realistic-looking emails, websites, and familiar logos to appear credible and gain trust. In some cases, these scams can lead to financial losses and identity theft.
Understanding Insurance Fraud and Scams
- Fake insurance companies or agents collecting premiums for policies that do not exist.
- Unlicensed individuals or entities selling products that appear to be insurance but are not legitimate coverage.
- Phishing emails, texts, or calls requesting payment or personal information.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Unexpected messages requesting payment or claiming a balance is overdue.
- Requests for personal, financial, or insurance information.
- Communications that create a sense of urgency or pressure immediate action.
- Insurance offers that are significantly cheaper than typical market rates and seem too good to be true.
- Difficulty verifying the identity, license status, or contact information of a company or agent.
How to Protect Yourself
- Pause and verify before responding to any unsolicited request.
- Avoid clicking links or opening attachments from unknown or suspicious sources.
- Do not share personal, financial, or insurance information without confirming the source.
- Contact insurance companies directly using verified contact information.
- Check that an insurance company or agent is properly licensed using the online license lookup tool.
- Delete and report suspicious communications.
- Regularly monitor financial accounts and insurance statements for unauthorized activity.
If You Believe You’ve Been Targeted
Consumers who believe they may have been targeted by insurance fraud or a scam are encouraged to contact the Connecticut Insurance Department Consumer Affairs Division by email: insurance@ct.gov or phone: 860-297-3900.
Additional Resources