here's how much young drivers are losing buying fake policies

Motorists aged 17 to 25 are being targeted by insurance fraudsters (Picture: Getty Images)

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Young drivers have been warned they could lose thousands of pounds by buying fake car insurance policies amid a rise in ‘ghost broking’ cases.

Aviva has detected an increasing number of motorists being conned into handing over their coin to fraudsters who pose as middle-men for well-known insurance companies.

Young motorists are losing £2,000 each on average when they buy fake policies,according to research by the insurance giant.

This includes the average premium paid (£1,700) and extra fees (£300) charged by ghost brokers selling fraudulent policies.

Aviva said ghost broking detections are running higher this year than in 2024 – and those aged 17 to 25 are the primary target.

Many scams start on social media and Aviva said it has identified a sharp rise in fraudsters using fake,professional-looking websites that impersonate legitimate insurers.

Conmen are using social media to lure young drivers in with cheap insurance (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Detective Chief Inspector Nik Jethwa,from the City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED),told Metro: ‘Ghost brokers prey on trust and vulnerability,leaving victims financially exposed and legally unprotected – often facing the same penalties as uninsured drivers.

‘These criminals use forged documents,fake websites and social media ads to lure people into buying bogus policies.

‘To stay safe,always buy insurance directly from a trusted provider or through a broker registered with the British Insurance Brokers’ Association or the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

‘Be cautious of deals offered via messaging apps or social media and never pay in cash or via bank transfer without verifying the source.

‘If you’re unsure whether your vehicle is properly insured,you can check its status instantly using the Motor Insurance Database via Navigate.’

Ghost broking victims can be liable for costs for any injuries or damage caused while driving without cover.

They could also face having their car seized by police and court action.

According to Aviva,people could also end up being victims of identity fraud if tricksters sell on their personal information.

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Anyone who suspects they have been a victim of ghost broking or other fraud should report their concerns to the police.