The Des Plaines, Ill.-based non-profit organization recently unveiled its new "TIP411" system, allowing anyone with text messaging capabilities to send anonymous tips related to insurance fraud and vehicle thefts directly to the NICB. The texting feature compliments the existing 1-800-TEL-NICB telephone tip program and online reporting system.
The NICB, which receives more than 300 tips per month, is supported by more than 1,000 property-casualty insurance companies and self-insured organizations and shares data with state regulators.
To send a text tip, cell phone users text the keyword “FRAUD” to TIP411 (847411) to submit their tip. Tips are anonymous and messages can be responded to in real time, creating an instant two-way live “chat” with NICB personnel, according to the agency.
The NICB added that the new system allows citizens to report on a crime without having to say a word, providing “an unprecedented anywhere, anytime, silent and anonymous approach to crime reporting.
“The American people now have a new and immediate way to report fraud,” said Joe Wehrle, NICB’s president and chief executive officer. “We are pleased to bring this service to the nation and urge people to help us in our efforts to keep their insurance costs down by using this technology to report fraudulent activity and vehicle theft.”