Fraud never takes a vacation, which is why this summer Équité Association is raising awareness about emerging insurance fraud trends. Équité’s 2026 First Half Auto Theft Trend Report revealed that criminals continue to evolve their tactics to identify new funding opportunities in vehicle crime. Fraud always has a victim, through this awareness campaign, Équité and its property and casualty members, are helping to fight against insurance fraud and keep Canadians safe.

Checklist for a secure summer car rental

☐  Ask the rental agency about additional security features

• Search for a rental company that offers advanced security features in their vehicles, such as alarm systems, immobilizers, and GPS tracking devices. Ask about their standard and enhanced insurance coverage options to ensure you are fully covered in the event of a theft or break-in.

☐   Bring your own security devices

• For added protection, consider investing in anti-theft devices, such as a steering wheel lock. These devices make your rental car more difficult to steal and can deter thieves.

☐  Park in well-lit and secure areas

• Look for designated parking lots or garages with surveillance cameras, bright lights or security personnel. If you’re in an unfamiliar location, check with your hotel concierge or rental host for advice on where to park.

☐  Look like a local vehicle

• Thieves know tourists may be travelling with important items, so attempt to blend your vehicle in as a local. Keeping a local newspaper on a passenger seat can give the illusion you are a resident. If you can, remove any rental car company stickers or tags that could make your vehicle stand out. Additionally, avoid leaving your guidebooks or maps in view.

☐  Remove valuables when you leave the car

• Thieves are more likely to target vehicles with visible valuable items, if the glove box is empty, leave it open to deter break-ins by showing there is nothing to steal. Remember to take your belongings with you, keep them out of sight or securely locked in the trunk.

Research Local Safety Information: Knowledge is power when traveling to a new destination. Take time to become familiar with local safety advice from law enforcement agencies. Research whether there are areas with higher crime rates or theft hotspots.

On behalf of Canadian property and casualty insurers, Équité combats insurance crime by deploying advanced analytics, intelligence best practices, and coordinated investigations. Follow this campaign and future awareness articles on LinkedIn, @Équité Association and equiteassociation.com. To anonymously report information about insurance crime by phone, please call Crime Stoppers (available 24/7) at 1-800-222-TIPS.