by Gauk
Wed, Jul 13, 2016 11:29 PM

What to do if your vehicle has been cloned

If you are being contacted about fines or charges for which you are not responsible because someone else is using your registration mark, it is possible that your vehicle has been cloned.

Cloning involves the copying of the identity of a similar (non-stolen) vehicle already on the road. Criminals find an exact match of the car they have stolen, they then copy the identity of the legitimate vehicle, therefore making it look legal based on false number plates being fitted.

Cloning of vehicles is a concerning practice that involves copying the identity of a legitimate vehicle already in circulation. Criminals meticulously select a stolen vehicle that closely matches another car on the road. They then proceed to replicate the identity of the genuine vehicle, often by using false number plates, in an attempt to make the stolen vehicle appear legal and avoid detection.

If you suspect that your vehicle has been cloned, it is important to take immediate action to protect yourself from potential further criminal activity. Here are some essential points to consider:

  1. Stay vigilant: Keep a close eye on any notices, fines, or charges that you receive regarding offenses committed by a vehicle bearing your registration mark. If you know that you were not involved in the reported incidents, it could indicate that your vehicle's identity has been cloned.

  2. Report the issue: Contact the appropriate authorities, such as the police or the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), to report the suspected cloning of your vehicle. Provide them with all the necessary information and evidence to aid their investigation.

  3. Gather evidence: Collect any relevant documents, photographs, or records that can help prove your vehicle's innocence and demonstrate that it has been cloned. This may include photos of your vehicle with its legitimate number plates, service records, or any other documentation that supports your claim.

  4. Check for discrepancies: Conduct a thorough examination of your vehicle to identify any noticeable differences or inconsistencies between your car and the suspected cloned vehicle. This could include variations in the vehicle identification number (VIN), manufacturing labels, or any alterations made to the vehicle's appearance.

  5. Protect your identity: If you believe your vehicle has been cloned, take steps to safeguard your personal information. Criminals may attempt to use your cloned vehicle's identity for fraudulent purposes, so it is crucial to monitor your financial accounts and be vigilant against any suspicious activity.

  6. Seek legal advice: Consult with a legal professional who specializes in vehicle-related matters. They can provide guidance on the appropriate steps to take, including any legal recourse available to you.

  7. Install security measures: Enhance the security of your vehicle by fitting additional anti-theft devices, such as immobilizers, steering wheel locks, or tracking systems. These measures can act as deterrents to potential criminals and provide peace of mind.

Remember, the process of dealing with a cloned vehicle can be complex and time-consuming. It is important to remain patient and cooperative with the authorities throughout the investigation. By taking proactive measures and seeking the necessary support, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of further crimes and work towards resolving the issue surrounding the cloning of your vehicle.

If you suspect your vehicle has been cloned, the following points will help you avoid becoming a victim of further crime.

What you need to do

  • return any fines or correspondence to the issuing authorities providing them with any documentary evidence you have to prove your case
  • write to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Swansea, SA99 1ZA or fax them on 01792 783 083, they will record your correspondence on the vehicle record for future reference
  • contact the police, it is a matter for them to trace and prosecute the culprit to prevent this illegal activity from continuing

What happens next
DVLA will give consideration to issuing a new registration mark on request if satisfied that there is a genuine case of vehicle cloning and that there is a recurring problem. Acceptable evidence might include applications to register and licence a vehicle from someone other than the registered keeper.

What is being done to stop cloning?
As part of the government’s drive to reduce vehicle related crime, DVLA has implemented measures to seek to address the problem.

The introduction of the Registered Number Plate Supplier (RNPS) scheme means that:

  • all current number plate suppliers in the United Kingdom must register with DVLA
  • registered suppliers must keep a record of every sale
  • documentary evidence of the customer’s name and address and entitlement to the registration mark requested, must be obtained
  • A team of DVLA enforcement officers works closely with police and trading standards colleagues to help ensure number plate suppliers adhere to the rules.
  • Intelligence led enforcement action is taken against those in breach of the requirements, including prosecution, fines and removal from the number plate suppliers register.

This has introduced much greater control over the supply of number plates.

To help tackle the theft of number plates, DVLA has led the development of an agreed voluntary standard for theft-resistant plates. Once these plates are detached from a vehicle they cannot be used again.

They are now available from a number of outlets. Please contact your local car dealer for further information.

published by Gauk