Clones and how to avoid them?
A cloned vehicle is one that has been stolen and given the identity of one that has no adverse data marked against it. This means that any data or history checks will bring back a "Clear" result and lead the purchaser to believe that it is safe to buy the vehicle.
However, if you do buy a vehicle that has been cloned, you will lose both the vehicle and your hard earned cash.
What do the fraudsters do?
They place false number plates on to a stolen vehicle . The number plate details are taken from a similar, but legitimate vehicle . They also change the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in the obvious places, so when the VIN is checked, it corresponds with the new number plate. They will then produce a false V5C registration document, either by forgery or by filling in one of the many documents stolen from the DVLA and currently in circulation
When a data check is requested, it is carried out on the false number plate, so the results that come back match the vehicle, make, model, colour, VIN, but also come up as clear. However, the reality is that the vehicle checked is not the one offered for sale. The vehicle offered for sale is stolen. It is only by making other checks and being a "Prudent Purchaser" that you can reduce the chance of buying a cloned vehicle.
What can you do to avoid becoming a victim?
"There is no such thing as a bargain"
The first rule is always to go to the seller. He may live a distance from you, but under no circumstances should you agree to him bringing the vehicle to you, or to meet him at a mutually convenient location.
Secondly check all the documents carefully - take your current registration document with you to compare the way it is set out and the font used. You can also contact DVLA to ensure that the serial number on the V5C matches their records (0300 7906104). Never buy a vehicle without a full V5C Registration document.
If the seller says he is a motor dealer, he should have appropriate premises. If he doesn't then be aware of the risk you are taking. A bone fide trader will have premises and printed invoices and a landline telephone number - do check it works! If you are not sure if he is a trader then assume that it is a private sale and follow these rules.
If you buy a product 'privately' then you cannot resort to legal action if things go wrong. This is why a vehicle will always be cheaper if a dealer is not involved - you have no warranty and no come-back if it breaks down before you get it home.
When buying privately you must be very careful to ensure that the seller has the right to sell the vehicle. After doing a Vehicle Check, visit the seller at home and ask to see the V5C. Compare the name and address (and do make sure you go into the house, don't just meet on the street). Question if they do not match and be prepared to walk away. If they do match, then ask for other proof of identity - a passport and a recent utility bill. An innocent person will never mind that you are being cautious, but a thief will start making excuses. If someone has died, ask to see the death certificate and proof that it has passed to them.
Cheap for a reason
If you find a vehicle being offered at a much lower rate than other similar vehicles of the same age, you have to ask why. If the seller is willing to drop the price even further, often because there is minor bodywork damage, then make further checks. A thief is willing to accept any amount for it, rather than be caught with a stolen vehicle.
Don't be conned
If this sounds unrealistic, it's not! Most people are honest, and many vehicles are sold privately every year without incident, but we do hear some sad stories when things go wrong. To see your new vehicle taken from you and to lose the thousands of pounds you paid for it is very distressing.
To summarise you are less likely to be a victim of crime if you:
- Go to the seller's address
- Ask for proof of ID
- Check the V5C registration document carefully
- If it looks too good to be true it probably is!
- Walk away if you are not absolutely sure - there are plenty more vehicles for sale
Data Insurance
We are unable to cover clones in our Data Insurance policy as the information provided to the vehicle buyer is correct based on the vehicle details provided to us. Some data checking companies claim to cover clones. However, please check their terms and conditions as the cover offered is very limited and you may find it difficult to make a successful claim. If you follow all the advice given on this site you will considerably reduce the risk of losing your vehicle and your money.
