Fake Travel Insurance
Bogus policies that take premiums for cover that doesn't exist or won't pay valid claims.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
What this scam is
Fake travel insurance scams sell policies from unregistered or non-existent insurers. You pay a premium but have no real cover, discovering this only when a claim is denied or the 'insurer' vanishes.
How it works
Cheap policies are advertised online or bundled with fake bookings. Documents look official, but the insurer isn't authorised. Claims are refused, ignored, or the contact details no longer work.
Common red flags
- Insurer not authorised by your financial regulator
- Prices far below typical cover
- Vague policy documents and no claims process
- Pressure to buy bundled with a booking
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
Full travel cover for just [amount]! Instant policy, no questions — buy now at [fake link].
Payment methods used
- Card
- Bank transfer
Who is usually targeted
- Travellers seeking cheap cover
- Last-minute bookers
What to do immediately
- Verify the insurer with your financial regulator
- Buy only from authorised insurers or recognised providers
- Contact your bank if you've paid a fake insurer
Evidence to preserve
- Policy documents
- Insurer details
- Payment records
Where to report it
- Action Fraud (UK) — UK national fraud & cybercrime reporting centre
- FTC ReportFraud (US) — US Federal Trade Commission fraud reports
- FBI IC3 (US) — US Internet Crime Complaint Center
- Scamwatch (Australia) — Australian competition & consumer reporting
- Your bank's fraud line — Use the number on the back of your card or in your banking app — never a number the caller gives you
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check an insurer is genuine?
Confirm the insurer is authorised on your country's financial regulator register, and read the policy and claims process before buying. Be wary of unusually cheap cover sold with urgency.