Many people believe that the internet is the main source of identity theft cases today. However, physical places like mailboxes and vehicles often also contain personally identifiable information. For vehicles, specifically, the theft of this information is known as vehicle identity theft.
In fact, police departments claim that a majority of car break-ins are perpetrated on unlocked vehicles. Police sternly advise that locking a vehicle's doors is an easy and effective way to deter crime. Even something as basic as a stolen car registration card can be used to commit further crimes.
To find out why a car registration card is so sensitive, check out the information below.
Information on a Car Registration Card
A vehicle registration card is essentially like a social security card for cars, and the vehicle identification number (VIN) is the car's social security number. This card usually includes the year, make, model, and VIN number of the car, as well as some personally identifiable information like the owner's full name and address.
How Criminals Use Stolen Cards
Stolen car trafficking rings don't just exist in the movies -- they are real. They thrive on the use of stolen VIN numbers. A car registration card provides them with all the information they need to cover up their illegal business.
These criminals can use a stolen VIN to register stolen cars or make false insurance claims. They can even use the stolen card to test drive cars at dealerships and drive away with them, leaving the true registrant with the debt.
What to Do If Your Card Is Stolen
If your car registration card is ever stolen, immediately make a police report. Try to provide the police with as many details as you can, like the date, time, and location of the theft.
In some states, car owners need to file for a replacement car registration card with the police department. In others, it is possible to apply for a replacement with the DMV.
Preventing Vehicle Identity Theft
The best way to prevent vehicle identity theft is to make sure to lock all your car doors every single day. Take care to look for safe public parking spots with surveillance, and park inside the garage at home.
Many people keep their insurance information and car registration card together in the glove compartment, so they can be easily accessed in case the driver is ever pulled over. This is convenient, but it is not safe.
These important papers have sensitive information and should be kept in a more secure location like a wallet or purse that you carry at all times. If nothing else, at least make sure there is an additional lock on the glove compartment to add an extra layer of security.
Checking a VIN
A car registration card is not the only sensitive, personally identifiable information in most vehicles.
Before purchasing a car, always make sure to check the vehicle identification number. It only takes a few seconds to use our free VIN decoder to do so.
