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From our most populous cities to our most rural areas, predatory towing has grown to be a prevalent issue impacting thousands of Americans each year.
Do You Know How to Recognize Predatory Towing?
No matter how careful we are, as drivers, we run the risk of being in a car accident. When it happens to your customers, do they know what to do to avoid becoming the victim of fraud?
You likely provide a checklist of what to do following a car accident: Make sure you are safe; check on the other driver and passengers; call the police; work with authorities to get your car towed and contact your insurance company.
But what if a tow truck arrives before they’re called? What if they say the insurance company called them? Or maybe they “just want to help” and offer to remove your vehicle from the scene. If they don’t realize the tow truck is running a scam, your customer might be charged multiple thousands of dollars for a tow and submit that claim.
Unfortunately, this is happening to many motorists and many of your customers. From the start of 2022 to the end of 2024, claims of predatory towing (also known as bandit or rogue towing) increased by 89% nationwide. These scams don’t just happen in major cities. Insureds from urban areas, the suburbs, and rural areas have all reported falling victim.
How Does Predatory Towing Work?
Predatory towers listen to police scanners or prowl highly trafficked areas to arrive at the scene of an accident before drivers have the chance to consider options. Once a tow has been approved and completed, vehicle owners are at the mercy of tow companies. Where the average tow should cost somewhere around $100 (depending on the distance of the drive and vehicle type), predatory towing companies have been known to charge victims more than $10,000, often citing vague fees for special equipment or outrageous “storage” costs. The victim has few choices but to pay what they’re billed, as many insurance companies struggle to find fault when the owner technically authorized the tow.
“The scammers are following the money,” Chris Stroisch, NICB Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications, told the Today Show earlier this year. “If you’ve just been in a car accident and a towing company shows up on scene, don’t do anything until law enforcement arrives first.”
Putting the Brakes on this Scheme
NICB works to combat all forms of insurance fraud, including these predatory towing schemes. Across the country, our agents have assisted law enforcement in investigating a wide range of tow schemes.
But ending predatory towing is about more than identifying the companies taking advantage of everyday Americans—it’s about changing the systems that allow them to operate in the first place. Our Government Affairs team works with local, statewide, and federal government to pass legislation that protects Americans from rogue towers. Earlier this year, NICB helped lead a broad coalition effort in Chicago directly supporting strong towing reforms, which passed unanimously.
For more details on protecting your consumers from predatory towing, visit our page.
Member Benefit Highlight
Data and Intelligence to Identify and Predict Insurance Fraud
One of our best protections against fraud is research and data. NICB’s Operations, Intelligence, & Analytics (OIA) department creates tools and resources that offer superior intelligence for members and partners to win that fight.
In 2024, OIA updated all member-facing dashboards as part of our initiative to increase member access to data and increase efficiency in metrics tracking. These tools allow members to see potential fraud within their companies and take action to reduce or eliminate the impact.
Reviewing multiple data sources and submitted questionable claims, NICB analysts and data scientists produce valuable intelligence reports and alerts to help member companies and law enforcement identify fraud that is impacting member companies and position all members to respond. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), NICB can make connections within data to more accurately predict fraud trends to help members stay ahead of fraud.
NICB in Action
NCICA Sees Record Attendance, Discussing Fraud-Related Challenges
October 7-8 marked NICB’s 5th annual National Conference of Insurance Crime Attorneys (NCICA). Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple set the stage for what would be two days of thoughtful sessions with some of the industry’s best.
Member attorneys and insurance fraud prosecutors participated in sessions covering third party litigation funding, cargo theft, life insurance fraud, and medical provider fraud, and discussed ways organized crime and artificial intelligence (AI) present increasing challenges.
This unique conference continues to grow, and this year we reached venue capacity, closing registration early. If you missed NCICA 2025 and plan to attend in 2026, join the list to be notified when we open registration.
Intelligence Reports
Access all recent insights and reports via ClaimSearch®. Sign in on your Google Chrome browser, select the NICB Services tile, and then Intelligence Reports.
Our Intelligence Reports are designed to bring the best value to our members in an easily accessible format. If you have thoughts on the delivery of these products, we would appreciate your feedback. Assist us in the development of future quality reports by completing this quick survey.
Insight Reports
The Evolving Risk of Social Engineering Cyberattacks Breaching Insurance Systems
AI-powered social engineering disrupts insurance company operations, exposes sensitive data, and leaves firms vulnerable. These cyberattacks have grown more common and more sophisticated. Learn about the attack flow of organized cybercrime, why insurance companies are targeted, and how to mitigate this issue.
Evolving Risk of Mail Forwarding Services Utilized to Circumvent High Premiums
NICB has received information on an evolving scheme in which individuals misuse mail forwarding services to circumvent high premiums. Several websites that offer assistance to obtain residency in South Dakota and provide mail forwarding have been identified. When investigating these cases, NICB recommends noting location of loss, reviewing ForeWARN Alerts, and more in this Insight Report.
Emerging Risk of Meat-Related Cargo Thefts
Since the top of the year, meat-related cargo thefts have increased by 242% with California, New Jersey, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Texas seeing top rates. Read this report for more insight into why this particular form of theft has increased, and mitigation strategies vendors can implement.
Evolving 2025 Auto Glass Questionable Claims
NICB has identified a substantial increase in Auto Glass Questionable Claims (QCs) submitted in the first eight months of 2025. Learn more about the states that saw the most substantial increases and the most common referral reasons in this Insight Report.
Evolving Risk of GPS Spoofing Apps in Cargo Theft
Available technology to commit cargo theft grows more extensive by the year. Developers have created phone applications that allow users to “spoof” a phone’s GPS location, which scammers take advantage of to conceal their location when stealing cargo. This report shares details on how organizations can detect a spoofed location, as well as sample applications that may be misused.
Trend Analysis Report
Slip and Fall Trend Report
NICB conducted a two-year analysis of slip and fall Questionable Claims (QCs). While there was only a 4% increase nationwide, California saw a 33% overall increase, and Las Vegas, Nevada saw a 57% increase. Learn more about the top claims by location, the most common policy types, and the most common referral reasons in this Trend Analysis.
Interpretive Services Billing Trends
Following a notice pertaining to the misuse of interpretive services, NICB developed a report to uncover additional details. This Trend Analysis identifies the highest-impact areas for this trend, the top provider specialties, and further information on interpretive services.
Advocacy Update
The NICB Government Affairs team drives legislative action on a local, state, and national level to advance our members' interest in the fight against insurance crime and fraud.
NICB Vice President of Strategy, Policy, and Government Affairs Kyle McCollum attended the NAIC Insurance Summit this past September. There, he presented alongside NAIC’s Greg Welker on “The Importance of Insurance Referrals—How Does it Help Me?” The pair explored the path of insurance fraud referrals, including where and who they come from, where they go, and how they are utilized. They also provided insights into how NICB and NAIC collaborate as non-profit organizations to ensure states receive the right data to effectively combat insurance fraud and crime.
Each year, the State Insurance Trade Association (SITA) Conference brings together state insurance trade associations from across the country to promote learning, collaboration, and strategy. NICB was represented by Northeast Regional Director of Operations Kevin Gallagher, who sat on a panel discussion on contractor fraud, and Senior Director of Strategy, Policy, and Government Affairs Howard Handler, who spoke on the mechanics and value of fraud reporting.
Howard Handler presented to the state of Maine’s Working Group to Evaluate the Potential Regulation of the Towing Industry. Handler, a non-voting member of the Working Group, provided an overview of common towing schemes and legislative fixes. The Working Group was created by NICB-supported legislation to study potential towing regulations within the state.
Kyle McCollum teamed up with NAMIC to raise awareness on the prevalence of staged accident fraud, and how to spot it for an article on Automotive Fleet. Kyle worked alongside NAMIC Policy Vice President Brett Odom to produce this piece full of insights and tips consumers can use to keep themselves safe when the unthinkable happens.
Training & Development
Each month, we offer diverse training opportunities to accommodate the many needs of industry professionals. Tailor your learning to your needs: take our FraudSmarts and microlearning at your own pace virtually or attend in-person conferences to network with other professionals from across the country.
Participate in International Fraud Awareness Week (IFAW)
This year is the 25th annual International Fraud Awareness Week - sponsored by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners and dedicated to raising fraud awareness and fostering discussions within the industry, with lawmakers, and the public. NICB is contributing by helping to bolster your investigative skills and meet CE requirements. Between November 17 and 21, our Learning & Development team has prepared a week of diverse training opportunities.
Learn more about these upcoming opportunities and register.
Many upcoming courses are approved CE credits in DE, FL, NC, and TX. Watch for all impending FraudSmarts and other training events.
Casualty Fraud | October 23
With casualty fraud growing increasingly common, course attendees will learn to identify schemes and indicators related to this form of fraud, as well as the action steps required to resolve them.
UPDATED! Application Fraud | October 28
Application fraud is a scheme in which an applicant deliberately provides false or misleading information to obtain better insurance coverage. This course shares how to identify indicators of application fraud and action steps to resolve inconsistencies. CE Credits not available.
Vehicle Inspections 101 | October 30
During this course, attendees will gain an overview of how to inspect and identify a vehicle. That includes how to identify fraudulent VINs.
Pet Insurance Fraud | November 4
Learners will dive into the intricate world of pet insurance fraud, gaining a well-rounded understanding of its dynamics, impacts, and prevention strategies. This course is designed for insurance-industry, veterinary services, and regulatory professionals. CE Credits not available.
Auto Physical Damage Claims | November 13
For those who work on physical damage claims- including those who take first claims reports and appraise vehicles following a claim, this course is the perfect overview of auto physical damage fraud schemes.
PIP Claims | November 17
Gain insight into the characteristics of personal injury protection (PIP) and “no fault” claims in this instructor-led class.
Casualty Fraud | November 18
With casualty fraud growing increasingly common, course attendees will learn to identify schemes and indicators related to this form of fraud, as well as the action steps required to resolve them.
Direct Report Body Shop Fraud | November 19
Identifying if a body shop is involved in fraud can be a challenge. In this instructor-led course, attendees will learn about the problems that might arise when dealing with a body shop that is suspected of fraud.
TNC Fraud | November 20
Learn about the limitations of personal insurance for technology-driven services, like ride-sharing. Our instructor will discuss the forms of coverage included in TNC-provided policies, such as bodily injury and property damage. CE Credits not available.
Vehicle Theft & Fraud | November 21
This course dissects the prevalent issue of vehicle theft and the effects it has on both consumers and the insurance industry. Attendees will gain insights into why vehicle theft and fraud is committed, the characteristics of Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN), indicators, and action steps.
Save the Date for IFM 2026!
NICB is proud to co-sponsor this industry-leading conference with Verisk. Each year, SIU and claims leaders, industry experts, and service providers connect at the Insurance Fraud Management (IFM) Conference to exchange knowledge on the latest anti-fraud technology and trends.
Ready to learn and network with top industry professionals at four days of unmatched educational panels and discussions? Mark your calendars for March 1-4, 2026, to attend IFM in Phoenix, AZ. Registration opens soon.
Join Us March 17-19 for the 2026 Virtual Fraud Investigations Academy (FIA)
Get foundational and specialized fraud training from industry experts with no travel required at our virtual FIA. This immersive, virtual three-day training event offers tailored learning opportunities for both new and experienced investigators looking to improve efficiency and ability to combat fraud.
To bring networking to virtual training, we're offering a virtual networking session for you to connect with your cohorts the day before sessions begin, March 16. Meet with like-minded professionals in targeted breakout rooms centering topics that matter to you. Join our list so you're notified when FIA registration opens.
Training & Events
See All Events- Webinar
- Webinar
July's Vehicle Facilitating Fraud SeminarJul 15, 2026 - Industry Event
IASIU Annual ConferenceSep 20 - 23, 2026
Success Stories
From contractor fraud to vehicle theft rings, our special agents rise to the occasion on a myriad of cases. Read about some of the impressive work our agents have completed in the field and their contributions to the fraud-fighting landscape.
NICB Helps Halt Colorado Organized Crime Ring
A major organized theft ring reportedly stole an excess of $2.2 million in vehicles. As the first ring known to use re-programming devices in Colorado, local law enforcement called upon NICB for BERLA assistance to perform vehicle forensics, vehicle identification, and grand jury investigation. After four years of effort, 11 individuals were identified and indicted.
Throughout this process, NICB continued to offer post-indictment trial preparation and restitution support, which led to restitution for 17 member companies.
Securing Stolen and Resold Vehicles
Stolen vehicles aren’t always used to commit crimes—sometimes, they’re resold to unsuspecting buyers.
In Massachusetts, NICB has been working closely with local law enforcement to identify stolen and re-tagged vehicles. One of our special agents assisted law enforcement with the recovery and documentation of a 2024 Honda CRV, ultimately resulting in the identification and arrest of the case principals.
Contractors Victimize Families with Roof Damage
Following a storm, contractors often offer to do a free roof inspection. However, some take the opportunity to damage shingles during the process. NICB was made aware of this scheme allegedly perpetrated by a specific roofing company in both Florida and Tennessee.
Insurance companies submitted questionable claim referrals to NICB. A ForeWARN Alert was issued while NICB assisted law enforcement with data analytics, investigative assistance, and securing claim files. Statements obtained from former employees by law enforcement indicate employees may have been trained to purposefully enhance damage, inflating claims which led to the arrest of one of the company’s inspectors.
Inflated Injury Claim Identified
Following an auto accident in South Texas, two drivers reported injuries and lost wages due to missed work. While this is a common claim, our special agent identified details that pointed to a possible fraud scheme.
Utilizing several internal platforms to analyze entities and identify known associates, our agent acted as a liaison between member companies and law enforcement to assist the investigation. Both drivers have been charged for allegedly submitting fictitious employment documentation to gain additional insurance reimbursement.
New LMS Implementation
This platform will be your one-stop hub for NICB training and learning materials—making it easier to find courses, track progress, and explore professional development.
CE Credits Due
Submit the CE request form on our website to ensure your credits are processed. Still need credits? We have six CE approved FraudSmarts coming up in November and a range of NICTA courses.
QC Submission Updates
These include improving access to guidance and support documents and calling out the contact phone number so NICB can easily reach the investigator working on the claim. Watch for details.
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