Insurance News - Thursday, June 20, 2013

Here are the leading auto insurance headlines from ONTARIO AUTO INSURANCE TOPICS ON TWITTER for Thursday, June 20, 2013:

• Canadian privacy advocates express alarm over the use of telematic devices after FSCO approves Desjardins pay-as-as-drive program. However, the program has been praised by Ontario Privacy Commissioner  Ann Cavoukian for the steps taken to protect privacy.
• This Florida case covers the classic insurance fraud from that state including staged accidents and the purchase of information on legitimate accident victims from bribed hospital staff.
• Isn't it gratifying when those arrogant fraudsters that brag about it on Twitter and Facebook discover insurers now check social media?
• A United Kingdom study suggests up to 60% of whiplash claims are either exaggerated or fraudulent.
• Consumer Federation of America reports that California is only state where auto insurance rates fell over two decades through 2010. The group attributes the decline to a law that gave regulators more control over rates. 
• A spike in personal injury claims has sparked applications for a 13.5% hike in Alberta auto insurance rates and calls for new reforms.