Insurer says high net worth individuals are targets
Chubb is warning high net worth customers are being targeted by criminals, citing the attack on pop star Rachel Stevens as an example.
Stevens was followed into her London home in Regents Park by three men, who threatened her before stealing items including her engagement ring, necklace and watch. A spokeswoman for the star said she was ‘shaken’ by the ordeal on Tuesday afternoon.
Chubb says there is a rising trend of aggravated burglary, and urged customers to beef up their security.
Chubb personal insurance manager Simon Mobey said: "The theft from Rachel Stevens’ home in London is the latest example of a rising trend of aggravated burglaries we are seeing amongst our high net worth customers. With security in many homes so good, unfortunately criminals are now resorting to forcing their way into the property with the owner, or when the door is opened. In response to this growing threat, many of our clients have now installed sophisticated security systems, using the very latest technology. In particular, we are seeing an increasing number of ‘audio’ CCTV systems, which have a 93% success rate in deterring intruders. If the CCTV system is triggered by somebody entering your property, the support team is able to speak to the suspect through the CCTV system. These systems also allow you to call ahead so your system can watch you arrive at your address and see that you are safely into your home without being followed.
“Homeowners should also consider who they voluntarily allow into their home. Thousands of pounds may be spent on installing hi-tech security systems, but employees are often employed with little or no comprehensive background checks. Chubb Insurance partners with a specialist security services which vet all staff to ensure real peace of mind.”
“Such incidents are understandably traumatic for the homeowner, and we offer many covers to help deal with the physical and emotional trauma. These include relocation expenses, psychiatric counselling and upgrading security measures.”
