What is a ghost broker?
A ghost broker is someone who sells car insurance policies that aren't valid. They'll take your details, then buy a policy with totally different information to get a falsely low price.
They're not a real insurance intermediary – they're fraudsters. They often use fake documents, fake addresses or stolen bank details.
Ghost brokers use fake details to buy a real policy at a low price, but it's not valid for your actual details. You'll then be driving around thinking you're insured when you're not.
Ghost broking is a serious problem in the UK. It often targets people who are desperate for a cheaper deal on their insurance, like young drivers.
What are the risks of a fake policy?
If you drive with a fake car insurance policy, you're driving without valid insurance. This means you could face:
A fixed penalty fine and points on your licence
Your vehicle being seized by police
A court summons, which can result in an unlimited fine and a driving ban
A claim being refused if you're involved in an accident
Your vehicle would also appear as uninsured on the Motor Insurance Database (MID) – a national register that police check when they scan number plates.
How can I make sure my policy is real?
There are a few simple steps you can take:
Contact the insurer on your documents. If you're a victim of fraud, they'll help you if it turns out your policy isn't valid.
Check the broker is authorised. Any legitimate insurance broker in the UK must be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). You can check this for free on the FCA register at fca.org.uk/register. If they're not listed, don't buy from them.
Check the Motor Insurance Database (MID). You can check whether your vehicle appears as insured on the MID at askmid.com.
Look out for warning signs. Be cautious if you're offered a policy at a surprisingly low price, asked for a personal bank transfer, or sent documents that look unofficial or hard to verify.
Buy direct or through a comparison website. Buying directly from an insurer or through a well-known comparison website reduces the risk of dealing with a fraudulent broker.
That guy on TikTok bragging about the super low prices he gets people for their car insurance? That's not how real insurance brokers act.
What should I do if I think I've been sold a fake Ticker policy?
If you suspect you're a victim of any kind of insurance scam, contact us as soon as possible so we can investigate and help you get a genuine policy in place. Our priority is looking after you and preventing this kind of fraud.
You should also report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.