EXHIBIT 23(b) CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration Statements: Forms S-8 No. 033-80180, No. 033-61355, No. 333-02261, No. 333-31141, No. 333-31143, No. 333-94659, and No. 333-64428 of our report dated January 26, 2001, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule 14(a) of 21st Century Insurance Group, included in and incorporated by reference in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2001. Ernst & Young LLP Los Angeles, California February 27, 2002