What if a vehicle tied to a claim, underwriting review, or investigation contains a counterfeit airbag that could harm an occupant in a crash — or a fraudulent VIN hiding a stolen vehicle’s true identity? Join this eye-opening session to explore the growing threat of counterfeit automotive parts, rebuilt safety systems, and vehicle fraud schemes affecting the insurance industry. Learn how counterfeit airbags, rebuilt seat belts, counterfeit VINs, and other substandard components are entering repaired vehicles, salvage operations, and criminal enterprises, putting drivers at risk and complicating insurance decisions and claims investigations.

Session Objective:

Participants will gain familiarity with counterfeit and substandard automotive parts and apply investigative strategies to minimize fraud and support consumer safety.

Key Topics:

• Counterfeit airbags and occupant safety risks
• Key indicators to support the identification of rebuilt seat belts and counterfeit airbags
• Counterfeit VINs and vehicle identity fraud
• Investigative red flags and fraud indicators in claims and investigations
• Automotive Anti-Counterfeiting Council (A2C2) resources and industry support in counterfeit parts investigations

Bio:

Robert Stewart manages Global Brand Protection and Aftermarket Service for Customer Care and Aftersales at General Motors. With extensive experience in corporate security and anti-counterfeiting initiatives, he works closely with industry partners and law enforcement to combat counterfeit automotive components, protect intellectual property, and enhance consumer safety. He actively supports industry-wide educational efforts and is the current President for the Automotive Anti-Counterfeiting Council (A2C2).