A new ‘crash for cash’ scam is on the rise
Crash for cash scams have been around for as long as cars, but there’s a new one spreading across the UK: ‘clip for cash’ involving wing mirrors.
Drivers should be on alert for these scammers, particularly as the cost of living crisis continues to make criminals more motivated.
What happens in a clip for cash scam:
- It usually happens on a residential road. The fraudster is parked on the left-hand side of the road and throws something (like a large rock) at the side of the victim’s car as it passes.
- This startles the driver and the fraudster will flash at them to get them to stop.
- The fraudster then accuses the victim of clipping their (already damaged) wing mirror and demands cash right away – or pressures them into visiting a cash point.
What to do if you think you’ve been targeted:
- Stay firm in refusing to give cash – regardless of whether a genuine collision has happened, money should never be exchanged at the scene
- Swap insurance details, as legally required
- Take pictures, videos and notes with as much detail as you can, including about the driver and any passengers
- If you feel you’re in danger, call the police
If you think you’ve been targeted in a clip for cash scam, make sure you tell your insurer and local police. You can also report concerns to the International Fraud Bureau’s CheatLine and Action Fraud.
