Brits face horrible consequences if they fall for new 'free surgery' holiday scam

Holidaymakers who get tempted by a new cosmetic surgery scam face big fines and even prison time if they're caught.

The Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) is sounding the alarm over a new plastic surgery scam, which sees unscrupulous doctors approach holidaymakers with the promise of free procedures.

All they have to do is pretend that the cosmetic workwas, in fact, a medical necessity. The doctor will then sign off the paperwork and send it to the patient's insurance provider, who will likely pay out, depending on what level of protection was bought ahead of the holiday.

While this may seem like an easy way to bag a gratis nip-and-tuck or a new nose, it is fraud. If your insurance provider catches wind of what you've been up to, there are big consequences. These include hefty costs including legal fees if you're taken to court, being put on the Insurance Fraud Register which makes getting covered much harder, and even prison time.

Have you been approached with this kind of offer? If so, we'd love to hear from you. Please email webtravel@reachplc.com

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In the most serious cases, insurance fraudsters face up to ten years behind bars.

The new scam came to the IFB's attention thanks to a tip‑off from a holidaymaker in Turkey who was almost convinced to sign up. Emma Majewska, who works for the IFB, told the Mirror: "She was approached by a doctor in one of the resorts. He explained when she asked about costs, as she was interested in cosmetic surgery, that it would be free of charge for her. There was nothing wrong with her medically. She didn't go for it, but reported it to us instead."

John Davies, intelligence and investigation manager at IFB, added: "They're acting from a position of trust. Maybe people wrongly think they can trust them, but they might end up with a criminal conviction."

How does the scam work?

Doctors based in holiday resorts may tempt individuals with leaflets and posters offering cosmetic procedures or surgery. The doctor then advises that the cost of the procedure is ultimately free, as they will provide fake evidence to allow for this to be claimed on their travel insurance.

Where is it taking place?

The IFB received a report of this taking place in Turkey, a popular destination in medical tourism. The organisation warns that it could be happening in other holiday destinations as well.

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What should you do if approached by a crooked holiday doctor?

Many people choose to have elective procedures abroad, and while most of these are legitimate, some offer a deal that is too good to be true. If someone offers to produce false documentation to support an insurance claim, the IFB recommends that you step away and, when possible, report to its confidential CheatLine service.

There are many red flags that can indicate that a medical professional is unscrupulous. Suggesting that they are willing to lie for you from the outset is certainly one of them.