Insurance department warns of fake shipping insurance this holiday season

"These providers facilitate the unauthorized sale of insurance, which can cost consumers money while not providing protection for stolen items," the agency said in a news release.

"When shopping online for the holidays, pay close attention to your shipping protection options and who is offering the coverage," Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready said. "Legitimate shipping insurance providers will be licensed companies or producers."

Unauthorized insurance sales are illegal and happen outside the control of regulatory agencies. If these providers become insolvent or are unable to pay for consumer claims, the Oklahoma Insurance Department may not be able to intervene.

Consumers can protect themselves by checking to see if providers listed on the web are licensed insurance entities through the Licensee Lookup tool on its website.

Homeowners policies might help cover the theft of an online purchase left on your porch. This is best for high-value items worth more than a policy deductible.

For any questions about the unauthorized sale of insurance or to report suspected insurance fraud by a licensed producer, contact OID at 800-522-0071 or visit oid.ok.gov/file-an-online-complaint/.

— From Staff Reports [email protected]