App to record video footage while driving launched to deter motor insurance fraud

SINGAPORE — In a move to combat motor insurance fraud, NTUC Income has launched a new smartphone application that allows drivers to use their phone to record video footage while they are driving.

The first-of-its-kind application, Orange Eye, comprises a recording device which captures footage of the road and enables drivers to submit their videos when making motor insurance claims. Users can choose from the recording options of two- or four-minute loops in the application.

In the last five years, NTUC Income has referred more than 150 suspected cases of fraudulent claims to the authorities for further investigation. Investigations of more than 50 cases have been completed, of which about one-third were brought to court. Warnings issued in six other cases.

In recent years, NTUC Income has also seen an increase in policyholders submitting their claims together with video evidence. In the past year, an average of 2,300 motor claims have been filed at NTUC Income on a monthly basis. Of which, about 40 motor claims include video evidence.

According to the General Insurance Association of Singapore, about 20 per cent of motor insurance claims are inflated or fraudulent. This costs the motor insurance industry about S$140 million each year.

Mr Peh Chee Keong, Vice President, Motor Insurance of NTUC income said, “If fraudulent practices persist motor insurance premiums will inevitably increase.”

“This affects everyone, including safe drivers who do not make any claims,” he added.

Users can download the application for free on their Apple and Android phones from Friday (May 23).

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