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Definitions |
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| Clone | A
'clone' is something that copies or closely resembles another. To make
multiple identical copies, to reproduce or imitate closely. In the
case of a vehicle, a clone is a vehicle (usually stolen) to which has been
affixed the identity of a similar or identical vehicle which is already
legitimately registered at the DVLA. The genuine vehicle has its
identity 'cloned' and placed on a car with an adverse history.
Imagine creating a duplicate set of number plates for the vehicle you own and placing them on a car of the same age, make, model and colour. You will have created a basic 'clone'. See also 'ringer' below. |
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| False Plating |
A simple change of identity -
the criminal removes the number plates form the stolen vehicle and replaces
them with a set for a similar car that is not recorded as stolen. To
the casual eye, the number plates now displayed appear correct and a check
on the plate will reveal a vehicle of similar make and model not recorded as
stolen.
However, as no other identity features, such as the VIN (see below), have been changed closer examination will reveal a 'problem' with the vehicle. |
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| Ringer |
A duplicate. We have heard
it said that a 'ringer' originates from the use of counterfeit
(illegitimate, duplicate) coins. Possibly however, the term 'ringer'
has more recently been associated with horse racing where a horse
substituted for another to defraud book makers is referred to as a
'dead ringer'. 'Dead' refers to exact as opposed to deceased.
In relation to vehicles. the
term 'ringer' was in circulation before 'clone' (see above). Ringing
differs from cloning in that a 'ringer' is a vehicle whose identity is
taken from a written off, salvage vehicle. A seriously damaged
vehicle, sat in a scrap yard will either be crushed, broken for parts or
sold on for repair. With regard to the latter, the criminal obtains
the identity of the salvage (possibly by purchasing the wreck) and then
applies this to a stolen car of the same age, make, model and colour.
The stolen car is a 'dead ringer' for the scrapped car (before it was
damaged).
Ringing is fast becoming an
obsolete term. Vehicle checking agencies, such as My Car Check,
ensure that the public have access to the total loss register and can
identify vehicles with an adverse history. Criminals want to sell
vehicles on quickly, with the least amount of fuss. they do not want
prospective purchasers undertaking checks, learning of an adverse history,
asking award questions and getting suspicious!
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| V.I.N |
Vehicle Identification Number also known as the Chassis Number. This is the
long number often found under the bonnet on a credit card sized piece of
metal and is often referred to as the 'VIN tag'. Modern cars have a visible
VIN - the number will be displayed in the vehicle's window.
A VIN is unique to the vehicle and can be used to trace its origin. Unlike number plates that can be changed on cars, the VIN will remain with the vehicle throughout its life. Okay, so there are exceptions to this and the most obvious are
In 99% of cases, the VIN will remain throughout a vehicle's history. Want to know more about VIN's? Click Here |
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