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License plate theft, believe it or not, happens for many reasons! Stolen license plates help criminals escape law enforcement, evade tolls, commit identity theft and more.If your license plate gets stolen and used in illegal activities, such as making stolen cars look legitimate, it can cause a legal headache for you. In this article, we'll explain how to protect your license plate from theft, report a stolen license plate and more. But, before that, let’s look at why they get stolen in the first place.
License Plate Theft - What You Should Know
Thieves can steal license plates for several reasons, most centered around committing other crimes. - when your stolen license plate is used for a different vehicle. This scam helps thieves avoid toll fees or allows them to drive with expired insurance or an invalid driver's license.License plate theft can be part of a larger plan to commit identity theft. Thieves can even use stolen license plates on gateway vehicles used in other crimes to evade or offset the cops. Regardless, a stolen license plate only means one thing: trouble.If your license plate is used on vehicles involved in a burglary or hit-and-run, your name and address could come up during the investigation. If used to evade tolls, you could face legal notices or penalties. But, ensuring protection against license plate theft can prevent this..
Steps To Protect Yourself From License Plate Theft
Media reports cite Police Chief Jesus “Chuy” Reyes that smuggling operations use locally stolen license plates. Imagine this happening to you and the legal aftermath you would have to deal with. Knowing how to protect your license plate from theft is essential as it keeps you safe from such incidents. Here’s what you need to do:
Use Anti-Theft Screws
When it comes to license plate theft protection, this might seem like a small solution, but it gets the job done. Anti-theft screws, also known as tamper-proof screws, require a special type of screwdriver head to be removed. As they don't work with a regular Philips or flat-head screwdriver - they alone are enough to make the thief think twice.
Use A Locking License Plate Frame
These special frames utilize a locking mechanism made of metal or other polycarbonate materials. They cover your license plate, preventing it from being easily removed and reducing license plate theft.When shopping, look for these covers. There are many similar products, so to ensure you have the right one, the label on the product says “theft-proof" or “locking.”
Be Smart Where You Park
Parking smartly is always a wise decision and essential to preventing license plate theft. Choose a well-lit parking spot; near security cameras, entrances and lots of foot traffic or passing traffic if possible.When parking at home, use your garage or, if you don’t have one, avoid isolated spaces and park under or near street lights. This creates a lack of anonymity, helping prevent license plate theft.
Pair Tamper-Proof Screws With Silicone Glue
To reduce license plate theft with this technique, take some silicone glue and apply it to the threads of the tamper-proof screws before you screw in the plate. The silicone glue makes the screws resistant to quick removal as it can strengthen the bond.
How To Report A Stolen License Plate?
If your license plate ever gets stolen, report it immediately!To do that, contact your local police department. You may need to provide the plate number, vehicle details, and the last time and location you last saw it. In addition, go to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office or website and report the theft. If you have surveillance equipment installed, check the security footage and share it with the authorities as needed.
Final Thoughts: How To Protect Yourself From License Plate Theft?
Why would someone steal a license plate? Criminals can steal license plates for several reasons like identity theft, toll evasion, and more. To prevent license plate theft, you can use several methods, including smart parking and anti-theft screws. Be proactive to protect your license plate, and help reduce theft!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I look up other people’s license plates?
Yes, looking up license plates is legal. You can use a free license plate lookup tool to find information on certain plates.
What information will the Police need if I report license plate theft?
With a license plate theft report, Police officials may ask for your license plate number, vehicle details, and the time and place it was last seen.
Can I drive my car if my license plate was stolen?
Driving a vehicle in the US without displaying valid license plates is illegal. If your license plates are stolen, report the theft to local enforcement and the Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency. Before driving your vehicle, you need to obtain replacement plates.
Why would someone steal my license plate?
There are several reasons for license plate theft, including cloning, identity theft, or to escape detection by law enforcement. Some people may physically steal the license plate; others copy the details to replicate.
What do I do if my license plate falls off?
If your license plate falls off, safely pull over and retrieve it, if safe. Place the plate in the back windshield for the remainder of your journey. When at the next sto