Is your selfie obsession putting your life insurance at risk?
Let’s be honest, we’ve all gone the extra mile for that perfect selfie—perched on the edge of a lookout, posing next to some “friendly” wildlife, or leaning a little too far over a waterfall. It’s all fun and games until you realise the risks, not just to your life but also to your life insurance.
According to University of NSW lead author Samuel Cornell, selfie-related deaths have become a public health concern, with Australia reporting 379 fatalities globally since 2008. Falls from cliffs and waterfalls are some of the leading culprits. Before you risk life and limb for the ‘Gram, let’s unpack how these selfie stunts can impact your life insurance.
Are selfies becoming a health risk?
Yes, selfies are officially risky business. It’s such a problem that “No Selfie Zones” are now popping up worldwide. A recent ABC News report found that many incidents happen at popular tourist locations. Cairns Council even launched a crackdown on no-go zones to prevent selfie-related injuries near waterfalls and cliffs.
“Selfie-related deaths are the new public health risk.”
Life insurance meets extreme selfies
You might think your selfie-taking escapades are harmless, but insurers could view them as risky behaviour. When applying for life insurance, you’ll need to disclose any dangerous hobbies or pastimes, and yes, that includes precarious selfies. Insurers classify activities like this under “extreme or dangerous sports”, which could mean:
Higher premiums: Insurers might “load” your policy with additional costs.
Exclusions: Coverage for selfie-related accidents might be excluded entirely.
Transparency is key here—if you’re not honest about your adventurous lifestyle, your insurer could deny a future claim.
Will life insurance cover selfie-related accidents?
If you die or get injured taking a selfie, insurers usually classify it as an accidental injury or death. But here’s the catch:
Disclosure matters: If your insurer isn’t aware of your penchant for risky selfies, your claim could be denied.
Misinterpretation: A fall from a cliff could even be classified as a suicide if there’s no clear evidence of your intent, which is often excluded in the first 13 months of coverage.
Source: Australian Financial Complaints Authority: Suicide exclusions in life insurance
Tips for selfie enthusiasts navigating life insurance
Whether you’re snapping pics at the edge of a cliff or posing with a bison (we don’t recommend it), here’s how to make sure your life insurance has your back:
Know your lifestyle risks: Be aware of how your hobbies may affect your risk profile.
Fully disclose everything: Share your adventurous side with your insurer—honesty pays.
Compare policies: Look for insurers who cater to thrill-seekers or offer better terms for higher-risk lifestyles.
Manage your risk: Ask yourself if the ultimate selfie is worth the potential cost. Spoiler: It’s not.
Source: AIHW: Australian Injury and Public Health Data
Selfie safety tips (because we care)
Avoid high-altitude or slippery spots. A selfie stick is safer than a risky lean.
Keep your feet firmly planted, and check the ground is stable.
Avoid snapping pics near wild animals, traffic, or electrical wiring.
Stay focused and aware of your surroundings—don’t risk it for the shot.
“No selfie is worth the risk. Play it safe while capturing the moment.”
Why insurers care about your selfies
Selfies aren’t just about cute angles and good lighting—they’re a calculated risk for insurers. Your insurance premium is based on how risky your lifestyle appears. So if you’re all about those heart-stopping shots, your premium might reflect it.
Remember: Life insurance is there to manage risks, not encourage them.