AIC launches consumer awareness campaign
- AIC updates
AIC is excited to announce the launch of its first consumer awareness campaign on social media, designed to inform Alberta insurance consumers about how AIC’s work protects them.
Over the course of five weeks, each post in the campaign will promote a specific way AIC protects the public:
- Our role as a regulator
- Our agent lookup tool to verify an agent
- The complaint process available to consumers if they have concerns about their agent
- Transparency about all disciplinary decisions from the Insurance Councils
- Available resources for consumers
Through this initiative, we aim to empower Albertans who may not know their rights as a consumer or how insurance agents and agencies are regulated. By increasing an overall understanding of regulation and providing individuals with the tools they need to more effectively navigate the insurance sector, AIC is helping build trust in the industry.
Why this campaign is important for consumers
The heart of our campaign is education. A lack of consumer awareness in the importance of working with licensed professionals can lead to consumers not being protected when they most need coverage. For example, there’s been a recent rise in “ghost brokers” falsely claiming to be associated with insurers, which is misleading consumers into purchasing fake insurance policies.
Every Albertan should understand the importance of working with licensed agents and agencies and do their due diligence in verifying the credentials of the professionals they’re getting insurance services and advice from. Working with licensed professionals provides peace of mind; it is a confirmation that the person handling your policies has the necessary qualifications and is held to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.
How the campaign supports insurance professionals
While the campaign is designed to inform consumers, it also brings significant advantages to insurance professionals. Increasing public awareness about the importance of licensing means that the professionalism and skills of licensed agents, adjusters, and agencies are showcased. Consumers understand that licensed insurance professionals must meet strict qualifications to obtain and retain a license. By promoting that licensed agents are regulated professionals who meet a set of concrete, high-quality standards, consumers can grow confident in the services offered by their insurance professionals.
As well, an informed consumer base means more opportunities for agents to showcase the qualifications and value they bring to the table, which elevates the profession as a whole. Informed consumers are also more likely to engage in more comprehensive and direct conversations with their insurance professionals. This leads to better understanding of their coverage and better long-term relationships between clients and agents.
Why consumer awareness benefits the entire industry
Consumer awareness is not just beneficial for individuals; it strengthens the entire insurance ecosystem. When consumers understand their rights, they are more likely to make more informed, thorough choices, which in turn encourages higher standards across the board.
Informed clients also contribute to a competitive marketplace, where professionals are motivated to provide top-tier service. This elevates the reputation of the industry, benefiting both consumers and insurance professionals alike.
Bottom line
Ultimately, our consumer awareness campaign is a win-win for both consumers and industry professionals. By promoting transparency, accountability, and the importance of regulation, we’re helping foster a culture of trust within Alberta’s insurance industry. Consumers can rest assured knowing they are receiving services from licensed, qualified professionals, while insurance agents, adjusters, and agencies benefit from increased public confidence in their services.
We’re proud to launch this campaign as a step toward increased awareness for all Albertans. Follow our social media accounts and be sure to explore the resources we have available here on the website for more information.
Do you have a complaint?
As part of its work to protect the public, AIC investigates complaints against insurance agents, brokers & independent adjusters
Make a complaint