National Insurance Crime Bureau
Coverage of National Insurance Crime Bureau in the Nexus archive.
- With Airbag Thefts Still Up, Could A New Ordinance Curb The Black Market Sales Fueling Them?
Airbag thefts targeting Honda vehicles have surged in Avondale and the Northwest Side, with over 1,200 reported thefts from January to April 2026. Victims like Rebecca Lang and Jose Luis Arroyo face high repair costs and long wait times for rare airbag replacements. Ald. Gilbert Villegas proposes an ordinance to curb the black market trade of stolen airbags, which are sold for $3,000–$5,000.
- Storm victims increasingly feel the sting of contractor fraud
Contractor fraud is rising nationwide after severe weather events, with reports increasing 38% from 2023 to 2025. The National Insurance Crime Bureau warns scammers target disaster victims through in-person solicitations and online methods, costing insurers and communities billions. Tips include verifying contractors, avoiding unsolicited offers, and working directly with insurance providers.