Partner Ernest Aduwa comments on cloning car registration plates in The Times

Partner Ernest Aduwa comments on the recent spate of ‘car cloning’ scams, where criminals duplicate vehicle registration plates to dodge charges or avoid detection in more serious crimes.

Ernest’s comments were published in The Times, 13 April 2024, and can be found here.

“Advancements in technology have unfortunately rendered the cloning of vehicle registration plates increasingly easy for criminals.

“Victims of these scams often find themselves saddled with the immediate financial burden imposed by spurious fines and penalties, endure protracted periods of distress and anxiety as they grapple with the onerous task of exonerating themselves from wrongful allegations, and there is the potential tarnishing of one’s driving record and insurance profile.

“Existing safeguards ostensibly designed to shield drivers from the scourge of car cloning scams appear woefully inadequate considering the escalating frequency of such incidents. Heightened vigilance and collaboration between stakeholders, coupled with robust legislative frameworks, are imperative to reduce the risk to motorists who are vulnerable to exploitation by such scams.

“In the event that one falls victim to a car cloning scam, there needs to be prompt and decisive action that is capable of remedying the error, to avoid the status quo of many individuals simply acquiescing to unwarranted fines or penalties. When the victims give in in this way, efforts to hold the perpetrators accountable are undermined.

“The unprecedented surge in reported incidents underscores the urgent need for greater awareness and concerted action to safeguard the rights and interests of motorists nationwide.”

“You can avoid checks if you can find a rogue mechanic who will make plates for you with no questions asked. Or you could make your own using a 3D printer.”

“It boils down to how much evidence you can provide to show that your car is not the one that has committed an offence.”