So there you are, sitting at a stoplight when a texting driver smashes into your rear bumper. But the headache has only begun. You call your insurance company, file a claim, argue over the value of your totaled car, and try to convince them your daily neck pain is real. Then the claim gets denied. The reason? Your most recent social media post.

According to The Zebra insurance marketplace, a report found that insurance companies used the same tactic in 42% of denied claims. They reviewed victims’ own social media posts to reduce payouts or deny claims entirely. It’s no surprise that 68% of U.S. insurers now have dedicated social claims review units.

Most often, social media posts are used to challenge personal injury claims. For example, you explain that you can’t leave the house, then post a story from a neighborhood walk. That contradiction goes straight into your file. But you’d better believe your social posts can also undermine automotive claims.

The other tricks insurers keep up their sleeves

Scanning your socials is far from their only strategy. Insurers also use AI to devalue or deny automotive claims. AI excels at combing through vast datasets, so it processes claims quickly. But it’s programmed to save the company money—and it’s efficient enough to pounce on any misstep you make.

Finally, if you opted into a tracking device from your insurer—hoping for a lower rate based on safe driving—any data it collects can be used to delay or deny your claim. So if you have a tracker, don’t estimate any details when you file. The tracker certainly won’t.