During times of economic hardship, crime rates tend to increase. Ordinarily, one would expect an increase in crime to manifest itself in crimes against people, crimes against property, and/or auto theft. Even if you have not been personally victimized, you may know someone — perhaps in the community or professional arena — who has been preyed upon.

It is important to emphasize that one of the largest increases in a certain type of crime makes each of us a victim and robs each of our households of several hundred dollars per year. Police reports are seldom made about this particular crime, and it rarely makes the evening news. It is insurance fraud.

The insurance industry consists of more than 7,000 companies collecting more than $1 trillion in premiums each year. Naturally, this makes a very attractive target for those with a propensity toward criminal activity. However, when unemployment rates and home foreclosures surge, it creates an enticing opportunity for even the most honest, law-abiding American who happens to have a good automobile and/or homeowner's insurance policy.