The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) strives to defeat insurance fraud and theft each day through various programs that incorporate information analysis, investigation, training, legislative advocacy, and public awareness. One way the Des Plaines, Illinois-based not-for-profit organization is currently furthering its mission is by extending its outreach to the more than 246 million cell phone users in the United States. 

NICB has introduced a text-based fraud reporting system, "TIP411,” which allows anyone with text messaging capabilities to transmit anonymous tips related to insurance fraud or vehicle thefts directly to NICB. This will supplement the organization’s existing website and 1-800-TEL-NICB phone tip programs. The current systems in place typically handle about 300 tips from concerned citizens each month.

“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 keep their insurance costs down by reporting fraudulent activity.”

To send a text tip, cell phone users can input the keyword “fraud” to TIP411 (847411) to report suspicious circumstances. For more information about the program, visit www.nicb.org.