Amanda Brandon, the BVRLA’s Director of Member Engagement looks at tactics used by criminals and fraudsters who are increasingly targeting the rental sector. Recent intelligence shared by BVRLA members highlights the methods being used and the steps companies can take to protect themselves, their customers, and the wider industry.
The rental sector has long been a target for opportunists, but recent activity has highlighted worrying new trends in criminal and fraudulent behaviour. Over the summer, BVRLA members reported several cases that demonstrate just how sophisticated and varied these attempts have become. By sharing intelligence and best practice, we can work together to protect our businesses, our customers, and the integrity of the sector.
Members noted a surge in bookings made at very short notice, often by organised groups. These rentals tended to be brief, with payment taken via debit cards or fraudulent credit cards. Documentation was consistently false, and stolen IDs were common.
Cases came to light in which offenders used East London addresses while renting vehicles in West London, with boarding passes that did not match booking details. These individuals were typically UK residents, operating independently at the booking stage but following strikingly similar patterns once vehicles were collected.
Encouragingly, this wave of activity appeared to decline once rental companies became attuned to the warning signs and began refusing bookings that raised suspicion.
Fraudsters have also been exploiting digital channels. Members reported patterns involving Chinese names, Beijing addresses, and bookings made through autorentals.com or other car hire broker. Payments were often linked to German or Swiss-issued cards, with IP addresses traced to Switzerland. Communication took place via WhatsApp and TikTok.
In these cases, the hirers themselves were innocent victims – swindled through false deals advertised on social platforms.
A second trend involved fraudsters impersonating legitimate rental companies online. Customers were tricked into sharing card or bank details, believing they were dealing with a genuine business and expecting a refund.
How members can protect themselves
To stay one step ahead, members are encouraged to take the following actions:
- Check and double-check ID documents to ensure legitimacy.
- Trust your instincts – if something feels wrong, it probably is.
- Invest in training – the BVRLA’s e-learning packages for rental can help staff identify suspicious behaviour.
- Be transparent with customers – make your complaints process clear and remind them that you will never request card or bank details via social media.
- Report concerns – share suspicious activity with the BVRLA via [email protected]. This helps us alert the wider rental community.
- Use the RISC database to report individuals who breach your terms and conditions.
Fraud and criminal activity will always evolve, but by sharing intelligence and staying vigilant, the rental community can make it increasingly difficult for offenders to succeed. The BVRLA is committed to supporting members in recognising risks, taking preventative action, and protecting both businesses and customers.
If you encounter suspicious activity, let us know – your information could prevent the next attack.
