New Zealanders “double-dipping” on claims or pretending to lose their phones so they can get the latest models will be immediately flagged thanks to the new Insurance Claims Register (ICR).

ICR Head Dave Ashton told the Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ) conference last week the most exciting change to the claims database is that it can alert insurers about suspected fraud in “real time”.

He later told insuranceNEWS.com.au the 15-year-old ICNZ database covers 90% of the claims market and holds 7 million claims records dating back 10 years.

He says the revamped system boasts sophisticated analytical capabilities, using Big Data technology to give a “deeper insight”.

“If a particular person has made multiple travel claims, then we can instantly inform the insurer,” Mr Ashton said.

Previously, insurers were unaware of such “double dipping” before they paid a claim and would have to go through the lengthy process of retrieving their money.

Mr Ashton told insuranceNEWS.com.au consumers need to be educated that making multiple claims for the same event is against the law.

It is estimated fraud costs insurers 10-20% of gross written premium worldwide.

Mr Ashton told the conference that every time a new technology such as the iPhone 6 is released, there is a 25% spike in claims just before the launch and up to three months after.

Many people who want to upgrade falsely claim their old phone has been stolen, lost or damaged.

“One of the hardest things is, how can you prove it?” Mr Ashton said.

Insurers may find “stolen” and “lost” items on eBay and other online auction houses.

ICNZ’s anonymous tip-off hotline also alerts insurers to fraud.

Disgruntled family members and former spouses are among the callers, Mr Ashton says.

The ICR is currently flagging 8500 potentially fraudulent claims.

The revamped register also features geospatial technology, visual dashboards and predictive analysis for weather.