(NC) — An increasingly common scam today involves the sale of “cheap auto insurance” to unsuspecting purchasers, tricking them into coverage that doesn't exist. Attempts like this may be directed at you, so protect yourself as follows:

-- Be suspicious if you are asked to pay a referral fee. Licensed agents and brokers do not charge such fees.

-- Do not consent to paying the premium through a money wiring service. Paying this way is not a practice in the insurance industry.

-- If you suspect fraudulent activity, contact the police.

-- If an agent or broker completes the insurance application form on your behalf, check it for accuracy. By signing the application, you are agreeing to the statements made to the insurance company.

To find individuals and insurance companies licensed and legally allowed to sell auto insurance, visit the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) website at www.fsco.gov.on.ca. Click on Auto Insurance (for Consumers), Licensed Representative

Listings, and select Agents/Companies. For more information about fraud protection: click on Publications & Resources, then click on Brochures and select: Don't Get Scammed Buying Auto Insurance.