Five app-rehended in London as police bust spoof vehicle insurance network

Five people have been arrested across London following the Metropolitan Police uncovering a network selling and supplying spoof vehicle insurance "apps".

The coordinated operation was led by the City of London Police, the Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (Ifed) and the Metropolitan Police after an investigation on some fraudulent websites.

Police discovered thousands of fraudulent insurance certificates and suspect details after seizing the databases and taking down and interrogating the domains.

Meanwhile, 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.

Early investigations suggest these may have been used by tens of thousands of drivers across the UK and suppliers of the apps face criminal investigation and potential charges for their offences. 

The main perpetrator is believed to be a former Metropolitan Police officer who had previously been dismissed from the force for driving without insurance.

Ifed detective constable Manveen Arura 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.”

Arrests

Those arrested include an 18-year-old man and a 21-year-old man from Chafford Hundred, both on suspicion of fraud by false representation, but 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.

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”