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New NICB Report: Vehicle Finance Fraud Threat Projected to Rise

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Sophisticated criminal networks are exploiting artificial intelligence and synthetic identities to target the multi-billion-dollar auto lending ecosystem

OAK BROOK, Ill., Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As traditional vehicle thefts steadily decline from their post-pandemic highs, organized criminal networks have shifted their focus to a more lucrative and complex target: auto finance fraud, according to a new report from the National Insurance Crime Bureau, (NICB), the leading, established non-profit dedicated to identifying insurance fraud.

National fraud exposure in auto lending has reached an estimated $10.4 billion, with total projected losses expected to rise even higher in 2026.

“Vehicle finance fraud has evolved from isolated credit misrepresentations into an organized, digital criminal industry that touches dealerships, lenders and insurers,” said NICB Chief Operating Officer Timothy R. Slater. “Stopping these networks requires shifting away from reactive, siloed defenses toward standardized and synchronized cross-industry reporting.”

Recent industry studies indicate that up to 24% of all auto loan defaults may be linked to fraud, with 77% of auto dealerships reporting an increase in fraudulent activity over the past two years. First party fraud, in which individuals or fraud rings misrepresent income, employment, or repayment intent using their own or synthetic identities, now accounts for nearly 70% of all vehicle finance fraud.

Borrowers flagged as likely synthetic identities default at a rate 12.5 times higher than typical consumers, producing average losses between $22,000 and $50,000 per case, dwarfing typical losses seen in credit cards or personal loans.

Key Schemes and Emerging Vulnerabilities Driving the Crisis:

Synthetic Identity and Automated Bot Attacks: Synthetic identity fraud powers an estimated 80% to 85% of identity-based vehicle financing schemes.Credit Bust-Outs and “Sign-and-Walk” Rings: Applicants submit inflated or AI-fabricated pay stubs, bypassing early default flags.Credit Washing and False Theft Claims: Suspected credit washing surged 228% between early 2024 and mid-2025, with bad actors submitting forged FTC dispute affidavits and police reports claiming identity theft to suppress derogatory trade lines and secure fresh auto financing.Enforcement and Reporting Disconnects: Current federal crime definitions exclude fraud and forgery-based acquisitions from motor vehicle theft statistics and focused enforcement efforts, obscuring the scale of criminal vehicle acquisition.

To combat auto finance crime, NICB works in close coordination with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, member special investigation units, fusion centers, and state fraud bureaus. Serving as a central operational bridge between the private sector and government, NICB deploys specialized agents and intelligence analysts to detect, deter and prevent insurance crime.

Additionally, NICB advocates for the modernization of state and federal statutory frameworks to close gaps exploited by synthetic identity rings, including the recent enactment of Oklahoma House Bill 3244, which established aggravated identity theft penalties and enhanced data-sharing, and continues to champion Minnesota H.F. 3826 to expand prosecutorial subpoena power and criminalize forged digital likenesses.

Anyone who believes they have information concerning insurance fraud or vehicle crime can report it to NICB at ReportInsuranceFraud.org or by calling 800.TEL.NICB (800.835.6422).

About the National Insurance Crime Bureau: Headquartered in Oak Brook, Ill., the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) is the nation’s leading not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to combatting and preventing insurance crime through Intelligence, Analytics, and Operations; Education and Crime Prevention; and Strategy, Policy, and Advocacy. NICB is supported by more than 1,200 property and casualty insurance companies and self-insured organizations. To learn more, visit NICB.org.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-nicb-report-vehicle-finance-fraud-threat-projected-to-rise-302912881.html

SOURCE National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB)

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STEPHEN A. SMITH ADDRESSES WHITE HOUSE DINNER ATTENDANCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO HBCUs AND PROTECTING CORPORATE INVESTMENT IN BLACK EDUCATION

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13 minutes ago

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October 24, 2026

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NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Stephen A. Smith, media mogul, New York Times bestselling author, and proud 1991 graduate of Winston-Salem State University, is addressing the public discussion surrounding his decision to attend a White House dinner with President Donald Trump, emphasizing his commitment to the long-term financial stability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

For Smith, the decision was rooted in a commitment to institutions that have educated generations of Black leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and public servants.

“I will always advocate for HBCUs and the students whose futures depend on them,” Smith said. “My reason for attending the White House dinner was to discuss the challenges these institutions face in securing long-term funding and to make the case that corporate America must continue to invest in them.”

Smith acknowledged federal support through the FUTURE Act while expressing concern that political tensions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) could discourage private companies from supporting HBCUs. He maintains that these institutions deserve sustained corporate partnerships, philanthropic contributions, and public investment.

“If we truly believe in free-market capitalism, businesses should be able to support educational institutions and charitable causes without fear of criticism or repercussions,” Smith said. “HBCUs have made extraordinary contributions to this country. They deserve sustained public and private investment.”

Ashley Christopher, Esq., Founder and CEO of the HBCU Week Foundation, recognized Smith’s advocacy and decision to engage with the administration.

“Stephen A. Smith has been a powerful advocate for HBCUs, using his platform and influence to shine a national spotlight on our institutions,” expressed Christopher, “His continued support of HBCU Week helps advance our mission of connecting students with life-changing educational opportunities, and we are proud to have him as our ambassador.”

Since Smith became an HBCU Week Ambassador in 2019, the initiative has facilitated more than 15,000 on-the-spot college acceptances and raised and awarded more than $150 million in scholarships, according to the HBCU Week Foundation.

As public discussion continues, Smith is emphasizing the importance of ensuring HBCUs have the resources and partnerships needed to educate future generations and expand opportunities for students.

CLICK HERE to watch Smith’s full response to his White House visit.

MEDIA CONTACT:

media@mrsasinc.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stephen-a-smith-addresses-white-house-dinner-attendance-reaffirms-commitment-to-hbcus-and-protecting-corporate-investment-in-black-education-302918547.html

SOURCE Straight Shooter Media

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Advantex Announces Completion of Financing and Extension of Maturity Date of Previously Issued Debentures

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13 minutes ago

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October 24, 2026

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TORONTO, Oct. 23, 2026 /CNW/ — Advantex Marketing International Inc. (CSE: ADX) (“Advantex”), a leader in the merchant cash advance and loyalty marketing products for merchants, today announced the completion of a $250,000 secured debt financing. Advantex issued a $250,000 non-convertible debenture which bears an interest rate at 12% per annum and matures December 15, 2027. The proceeds raised from this issuance of the Debenture will be used for working capital purposes.

Advantex has also extended the maturity of its existing $700,000 in 12% secured debentures from October 10, 2026 to December 15, 2027.

About Advantex Marketing International Inc.

Advantex provides working capital to merchants. Advantex also provides specialized marketing programs that enable members of Aeroplan to earn Aeroplan points at participating merchants.

Advantex shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol ADX. For more information go to Advantex’s profile on www.sedar.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the future business and operations of Advantex. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The business and operations of Advantex described herein is dependent on a number of factors and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ material include, but are not limited to, changes in Advantex’s economic and competitive conditions including but not limited to the industry sectors in which Advantex operates.

The statements in this news release are made of the date of this release. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made and Advantex undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Advantex Marketing International Inc.

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Club Offers for Travel Enthusiasts in Canada

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1 hour ago

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October 23, 2026

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TORONTO, Oct 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), the club for travel enthusiasts, announces three of many new Club Offers for Club Members in Canada.

Rigorously vetted and negotiated for us travel enthusiasts:

$799—COSTA RICA WEEK WITH FLIGHTS & CAR
We think fall is an ideal time to visit Costa Rica; the scenery is lush and the crowds are gone. Drive between volcanic Arenal and the idyllic beaches of Tamarindo on this seven-night trip. Since it’s not as busy, we were able to negotiate a price that saves members up to $648 on departures through mid-December.

$899—BARCELONA: 5 NIGHTS WITH FLIGHTS
Explore Barcelona’s world-class museums and architectural masterpieces in the quieter winter months to pack more into your trip. You won’t waste hours in lines and can access top restaurants that are fully booked in summer. We save $300 on travel this January and February, when temperatures are still spring-like. Roundtrip flights from Toronto, hotel and daily breakfast are included.

$999—ST. KITTS GETAWAY FOR 2, REG. $2083
Most visitors to St. Kitts book months in advance, but when we pointed out that travel enthusiasts are more spontaneous, this resort gave us a terrific rate for stays this November and December. Spend four nights in Frigate Bay and get an upgraded Oceanview room, too.

Are you a travel enthusiast? Join the club today: https://travelzoo.com

Who are we?
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. We reach 30 million travellers. Club Members receive Club Offers negotiated and rigorously vetted by our deal experts around the globe. Our relationships with thousands of top travel companies give us access to irresistible deals. Our club and its benefits are built around the lifestyle of a modern travel enthusiast.

Media Contact: 
Amanda Ieraci – Toronto
+1 437 866 8540
aieraci@travelzoo.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/club-offers-for-travel-enthusiasts-in-canada-302918543.html

SOURCE Travelzoo

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