I’d guess most people have got an insurance story or two that would at least partially corroborate the crook description
In their eyes possibly, but the majority of disappointed claimants are guilty of not reading the small print in their policy or failing to disclose essential information. The initial proposal may well have included the question, "Do you hold any other insurance policy to cover this risk?" "If your answer is 'YES' please read note 1.2.34 etc. etc." The note may then go on to discuss the possibilities of holding an insurance policy that doesn't cut in until after the first policy limit is reached. Buying layers of insurance is not uncommon where high values are concerned. Two policies covering the identical level of loss are not normally allowed. In the long term it pays to use a broker, they get paid by the Underwriter but work for the insured.