IASIU Feature By Dennis B. Kass Going On the Offensive Creative Ways to Combat Insurance Fraud T he first step in combating insurance fraud is to recognize that there truly is a problem. Is there really THAT much fraud out there? In truth, it is that bad. In California, even our legislature recognized this, codifying the extent of the fraud. "Insurance fraud is a particular problem for automobile policyholders; fraudulent activities account for 15 to 20 percent of all auto insurance payments." (California Insurance Code section 1871(b)) Now that we know there is a problem, how do we fight back? When combating fraud, we always seem to be on the defensive. We react to events which have already transpired. We defend lawsuits one or more years post loss. We take examinations under oath. We are reactive. When considering a successful fraud fighting formula and the deterrence that comes from fighting fraud, thought should be given to affirmative or offensive actions to deter fraud. www.iasiu.org Spring 2015 SIU Today 7http://www.iasiu.org