The number of reported cloned vehicles involved in offences on UK roads has reached a record high, according to official data. Last year, over 11,400 drivers contacted the DVLA after receiving fines for offences they did not recognise or accept responsibility for. Most of these cases are believed to be linked to number plate cloning, where a vehicle's number plate is fraudulently copied onto a similar vehicle to avoid enforcement cameras.
The RAC motoring organisation, which analysed data obtained through freedom of information requests, stated that complaints about misattribution were 9% higher than in 2024 and nearly double the figure recorded in 2018. The RAC's head of policy, Simon Williams, said the UK needs to overhaul its number plate system, describing it as outdated and poorly regulated.
Last month, the government announced a new nationwide crackdown on illegal number plates. This initiative includes funding from the Department for Transport for a new roads policing team and the establishment of a National Roads Policing Coordination Centre to share intelligence. The centre will also trial new technology, such as specialised goggles designed to detect number plates that have been made unreadable by cameras.
A Department for Transport spokesperson said they are supporting police and the DVLA to make it easier to report these crimes and assist victims through a new digital tool. Drivers found using an incorrectly displayed number plate could face a fine of up to £1,000.