How Insurers Use Social Media (and What Not to Post After a Claim)

Social media is where we go to vent, share updates, and document our lives — especially after something unexpected happens. But if you've recently been in a car accident or filed an insurance claim, hitting “post” without thinking it through could backfire.

What many people don’t realize is that insurers do check social media. Not always — but often enough that it’s worth being cautious about what you share. In some cases, what you post could even affect your claim.

Here’s how insurance companies may use social media — and what to avoid posting after a claim.

Yes, Insurance Companies Can (and Do) Look at Social Media

If you file a claim — especially one involving a large payout — don’t be surprised if the insurer starts checking public information about you, including your social media accounts. This is particularly common in cases involving:

• Personal injury
• Stolen vehicles
• Suspicious damage
• Disputed liability

They’re not necessarily trying to “catch” you doing something wrong — but if there are red flags or inconsistencies, your public posts could be used to investigate further.

Posts That Could Work Against You

Even a seemingly harmless post can raise questions if it conflicts with the details of your claim. For example:

• “Ugh, can’t believe I backed into that pole. So dumb.”
   Wait… your claim said someone hit you in the parking lot.
• A photo of your car “totaled” — but parked in a new location later.
   How did it get there if it wasn’t driveable?
• A check-in at a concert the night you were supposedly recovering from an injury.
   It’s not always about proving you’re lying — it’s about casting doubt.

Social media can provide a timeline, GPS tags, or even video evidence. And even if your account is private, that doesn’t guarantee full protection. Friends may share or tag you in public posts, and in rare legal cases, courts can request access.

What Not to Post After Filing a Claim

If you've recently filed an auto insurance claim (or any type of claim), here’s what you should avoid posting until it's fully resolved:

• ❌ Details about the accident — Especially anything that contradicts the official report.
• ❌ Photos of your vehicle — Damage, repairs, or anything that could invite questions.
• ❌ Updates about your health or injuries — If you're claiming bodily injury, downplaying it online could hurt your case.
• ❌ Comments about fault — Admitting guilt, even casually, can complicate things.
• ❌ “Look what I got from insurance” brag posts — Not a good look, and could be used to question motives.

What If Someone Else Posts About the Accident?

It happens — a friend tags you in a photo of your car, or someone shares footage from the scene. If anything feels off, ask them to take it down or make it private. It’s your responsibility to protect your own claim, and while you can’t control everything, being proactive helps.

It’s Not About Hiding — It’s About Being Smart

To be clear: if your claim is honest and accurate, you probably don’t have much to worry about. But oversharing online can complicate even the cleanest cases. Insurance companies are allowed to do basic online research — and if they find something that casts doubt, it may slow down (or even reduce) your payout.

So instead of posting, use that energy to gather documents, get estimates, and stay in touch with your adjuster.

The Bottom Line

Social media is public — and insurance adjusters know how to use it. If you’re in the middle of a claim, it’s best to hit pause on posts, comments, and check-ins that could muddy the waters. Once your case is closed, you’re free to share away — just make sure you’re not accidentally sharing something your insurer (or a lawyer) could use against you.

👉 Filing a claim or recently had an accident? This is a great time to review your coverage, understand your rights, and make sure your insurance still fits your needs. A quick policy check can give you peace of mind — and maybe even uncover ways to save.