Vehicle Identification Number "Cloning"

7/15/2009

Lexington, KY - In the sagging economy, more people have been saving some money by purchasing used automobiles. You may have just bought what seems like a great car from someone and even had your mechanic check it out, to make sure it's in good working condition. But what if its biggest flaw is something you CAN'T see?

Beware of VIN "cloning", which could have you unknowingly buying a stolen car. The VIN, or Vehicle identification Number, is how police can track stolen cars. The FBI says a thief will write down the VIN from a car that ISN'T stolen, and punch out that VIN to replace the stolen car's VIN.

Thieves may use a computer to produce authentic looking documents with phony VINs. Then they sell the car and the buyer is none the wiser.

If you buy the stolen car and the police track it down, they'll return to its rightful owner. Even if you prove you were an unknowing victim, you've still lost your money, the car, and have no recourse from the thief who sold it to you.

Your Better Business Bureau and the FBI has these tips to avoid becoming a victim of VIN cloning.

  • Be cautious of a late model luxury car or SUV selling for a too-good-to-be-true price.
  • Look for signs of tampering on the VIN plate.
  • Check the VIN not only on the dash, but inside the door and under the hood against the car's title documents for discrepancies.
  • Get a copy of the cars vehicle history report that could indicate discrepancies.

One sign that your car may have been cloned is receiving notices for unpaid parking tickets or other violations….contact local police if you suspect a problem. If your gut tells you that there might be a problem…don't fall for it!

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Be a "Don’t Fall for It!" informant! If you have something to share you believe may be a fraudulent offer or scam, please let the BBB know! Call us at (859) 259-1008 or toll-free, 1-800-866-6668, or email us at info@bluegrass.bbb.org.