What is Vehicle Cloning?

Vehicle cloning is a criminal activity where offenders steal the identity of a legally registered vehicle by swapping its number plates with those from another car. These cloned plates typically belong to vehicles of the same make, model, and colour, which helps the criminals evade detection by law enforcement systems, such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR). This enables them to carry out illegal activities, including using the vehicle for fraud or theft.

Why Should You Be Concerned?

For businesses purchasing used vehicles, vehicle cloning can have serious consequences. If you unknowingly buy a cloned vehicle, not only could the police seize the car, but you may also lose both the vehicle and the money you spent on it. Moreover, cloned vehicles often have hidden issues, including altered mileage, a history of being written off after accidents, or stolen components, all of which could pose significant safety risks for your operations.

How Do Criminals Get Cloned Plates?

In the UK, criminals can easily obtain “show plates” online or over the phone, requiring little documentation. These plates, which typically cost around £20, are often dispatched the same day. They are not connected to any legal vehicle and can be used to mislead authorities. Criminals use these plates to clone the identity of legitimate vehicles, allowing them to avoid detection.

How to Protect Your Business from Buying a Cloned Car

To protect your business from falling victim to a vehicle cloning scam, always carry out a thorough CAP HPI Check before making a purchase. This essential step ensures the vehicle’s registration number, engine number, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) match the official records held by the DVLA. The check can also reveal if the vehicle has been stolen, written off, or has any outstanding finance—helping you avoid costly mistakes and reputational damage.

Key Tips to Avoid Vehicle Cloning Scams

Follow these important steps to ensure the vehicle you’re buying is legitimate:

Check the Vehicle’s History

Verify the vehicle’s history with the DVLA and ensure the vehicle is being sold from the address listed on the V5C/logbook.

Inspect the V5C/Logbook Carefully

Be on the lookout for counterfeit documents. Hold the V5C up to the light to check for official DVLA watermarks. If the document is missing watermarks, it could be fake.

Match VIN and Chassis Numbers

Ensure that the VIN and chassis numbers on the car align with official records. Use a CAP HPI Check to cross-check this information with the DVLA.

Be Wary of Unrealistic Prices

If the car is priced significantly lower than similar vehicles, it may be a red flag. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true, as they may indicate potential fraud.

Avoid Cash-Only Payments

Be cautious if the seller insists on a cash-only transaction. This may be an attempt to bypass creating a paper trail. It’s safer to use traceable payment methods.

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off about the car or the seller, trust your instincts and walk away. It’s better to be cautious than to risk making a costly mistake.

Why a CAP HPI Check is Essential

A CAP HPI Check is a crucial step in confirming a vehicle’s history before purchasing it. The check will verify whether the car has been stolen, written off, or has any outstanding finance. Furthermore, it includes a guarantee offering financial protection if you unknowingly buy a cloned vehicle.

Conclusion

By taking the time to verify the history of a vehicle, you can protect your business from the financial and safety risks associated with vehicle cloning. A CAP HPI Check provides you with the necessary peace of mind, ensuring that the vehicle you’re buying is legitimate, safe, and free from hidden issues. For more information, visit www.cap-hpi.co.uk.