What Is A Cloned Number Plate?
Cloned number plates are illegal copies of existing vehicle registration numbers that can be used to disguise the identity of the driver. They are often used by criminals to avoid detection and punishment, as they make it difficult for law enforcement agencies to track down offenders.
Although this issue has been well scrutinised, number plate cloning still happens and represents a threat to many drivers in the UK. A recent report states that there are roughly 13,000 cases every year, which has increased from 4,000 in 2018. Cloned number plates provide criminals with a method to evade law enforcement.
What Actions Should You Take After Your Number Plate Has Been Cloned?
It can be difficult to determine if your number plate has been illegally duplicated. If you believe your number plate has been cloned, report it to the police immediately. Make sure to provide as much evidence as possible – such as photos, CCTV footage or any information – so they can investigate further.
If possible, you should gather records of your GPS location through your smartphone or any other smart device. This will act as evidence of your innocence concerning any offence committed using copies of your number plates. The next appropriate step is to contact the DVLA to inform them of the situation and then present this information to get these offences cleared from your record.
Receiving A Replacement Number Plate
A cloned number plate can put the victim at risk if they attempt to use their vehicle after crimes have taken place with their registration number. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect yourself from any potential further criminal activity relating to the plate in question. The purchase of a personalised number plate will allow you to use your vehicle in peace again.
Luckily, it is fairly straightforward to buy a private plate, especially if you’re mindful of the following points:
- It is recommended that you buy your private plate from an authorised seller, as you can be sure that they’ll follow the rules and regulations set by the DVLA.
- You’ll need to have an idea of a particular word, name, initials, and date that you’d like to be shown on your registration number.
- A number plate that makes your vehicle appear newer than it is is not permitted, so you must make sure the age identifier of the registration is the same or older than your previous number plate. Although, a dateless plate can effectively hide your vehicle’s age, as it doesn’t have a year code within the registration.
- Once you have found the ideal private reg, you can proceed with the checkout process.
- Some suppliers will give you the option to pay for the plate monthly or in full.
- The total amount of the plate should include the £80 DVLA transfer fee, which will facilitate the assignment of the registration to your vehicle.
- Please note that you’ll only be legally allowed to drive the car with your new private number plate, once you have received a new V55 with confirmation of the completed transfer to your vehicle.
- You should also make your insurance company aware that your registration number has changed.
Overall, cloned number plates are a severe inconvenience. They not only put innocent drivers at risk of legal action and financial loss, but they also make it harder for the authorities to do their jobs effectively. Currently, there aren’t many solutions to the issues at hand. The steps mentioned above, however, will help you limit the damage you inflict on yourself and get back on the road in no time.
