NYC Loses $200 Million Annually to Fake License Plate Scams

How Fake License Plates Impact City Revenue

The New York Post published an article this morning revealing that “ghost” or fake license plate scams are costing New York City $200 million annually, according to a new analysis by Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine’s office. These plates, which are obscured, fake, or missing, allow drivers to evade detection by speed and red-light cameras, leading to uncollected tolls and fines. The issue is fueled by an online industry selling gadgets that render plates unreadable, some using “James Bond-level” technology to hide plate numbers at the push of a button. Over 5% of vehicles passing city cameras now have unreadable plates.

City officials have responded with crackdowns, including a recent joint operation by the NYPD and MTA that caught 200 motorists. Levine noted that the increase in speed and red-light cameras has inadvertently encouraged drivers to obscure their plates. He suggests solutions like adding RFID tags to registration stickers and using AI to match obstructed plates to vehicles. Levine also proposes higher fines for fake or obstructed plates and shutting down the online market for such devices. Last year, several City Council members urged the US Transportation Secretary to tackle the sale of fraudulent plates.

How to Spot Fake License Plates and What to Do if You’re in an Accident with One

Spotting Fake License Plates

Fake license plates can often be identified through several telltale signs. Here’s what to look out for:

1. Plate Covers: Some fake plates use dark, tinted, or reflective covers to obscure the numbers and letters, making them hard to read.
2. Scratched-Out Characters: Look for plates where characters appear to be deliberately scratched out or partially removed. This can be a tactic to avoid detection by cameras.
3. Fake Paper Plates: Be wary of paper or cardboard plates that appear unprofessional or are printed in a non-standard font. Official plates are typically made of metal or durable plastic.
4. Mismatched Information: Check if the plate number matches the make, model, or state of the vehicle. Mismatched information is a common indicator of a fake plate.
5. Poor Quality or Alterations: Examine the quality of the plate. Blurry printing, uneven edges, or signs of tampering can all indicate a fake or altered plate.

What to Do if You’re in an Accident with a Vehicle with a Fake License Plate

1. Stay Safe: Ensure your safety and the safety of any passengers. Move to a safe location if possible, away from traffic.
2. Gather Evidence: Take photos of the vehicle, including its license plate, and any visible damage. Capture as many details as you can, such as the make, model, and color of the vehicle.
3. Contact Law Enforcement: Immediately report the accident to the police. Inform them about the suspicious license plate and provide all gathered evidence.
4. Get Witness Information: If there are any witnesses to the accident, gather their contact information and statements. Their accounts may be crucial in verifying the incident.
5. File an Insurance Claim: Notify your insurance company about the accident and provide them with all the details and evidence collected. They can guide you on the next steps for your claim.
6. Stay Calm: Dealing with a hit-and-run or a vehicle with a fake plate can be stressful. Stay calm and cooperate with law enforcement and your insurance company to resolve the situation.