Due to the rise in the number of vehicles identity theft there must be emphasis placed on vehicle secruity, it’s really important to know the difference between a regular vehicle number plate and a High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP). While both display the vehicle’s number plate, their security features and effectiveness differ greatly. This blog post dives into the key distinctions between these two types of plates, highlighting the importance of authenticity and explaining why HSRPs are essential for enhanced vehicle security compared to normal number plates.
Difference Between HSRP and Normal Vehicle Number Plates
Most vehicles sport standard number plates, typically made from painted metal or plastic. These plates offer basic vehicle identification with minimal security features. They are prone to tampering, easily copied normal number plates, and wear and tear, all of which pose significant security risks. High-security number plates, on the other hand, utilise cutting-edge technology and are mapped to centralised vehicle identification information systems. The HSRPs are made with strong aluminium and come well-equipped with various security features.
Below are the main differences:
- Reflective Features: HSRPs enhance driving safety through superior light reflectivity. The high-quality retroreflective sheeting, both laminated and embossed, ensures outstanding visibility during the day and exceptional reflectivity at night. Extensive global research over the last 40 years has shown that retroreflective sheeting on vehicle licence plates significantly reduces accidents and fatalities. This feature happens to be a big step forward in India, where poor visibility is a leading cause of road accidents.
- Chromium-based Hologram: Chromium-based holograms, a staple security feature in daily applications, are utilised to enhance the durability and authenticity of licence plates. These holograms, featuring the ‘CHAKRA’ as mandated by the Government of India, are applied using hot-stamping at a temperature of 220° Celsius, making them weather-resistant and tamper-proof. The visibility of these holograms aids in quick verification, providing a clear indication of authenticity and preventing duplication.
- Security Inscription: The security inscription on the HSRPs includes a Pearl Pigment Colour. This special ink changes intensity when viewed from different angles or under varying lighting conditions, making duplication through simple printing methods ineffective.
- Snap Lock: The licence plates are secured to the vehicle using a snap lock mechanism that replaces traditional bolting methods. This design not only deters theft by preventing the reuse of the plate but also makes any tampering immediately apparent, aiding law enforcement in identifying irregularities. This locking system is recognised globally and used in countries like Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Indonesia etc.
- Third Licence Plate Sticker on the Windscreen: As an additional security layer, a self-destructive sticker is applied to vehicle windscreens, displaying essential registration details. This sticker integrates seamlessly with the HSRP system, providing immediate access to vital information such as laser numbers and registration data, thus enhancing vehicle security.
- Laser-etched 12-digit Alphanumeric Code: Each licence plate features a unique, laser-etched 12-digit alphanumeric code located beneath the ‘IND’ insignia, ensuring that no two plates are identical. This permanent, tamper-proof engraving links directly to a centralised database (ie VAHAN) for quick retrieval of detailed vehicle information, offering an unrivalled level of security and traceability.
The Concept of High-Security Number Plates
HSRPs were introduced by the Government of India to enhance vehicle security and standardise registration plates across India. Their primary aim was to combat the rampant cases of vehicle theft and cloning, both significantly reduced with HSRPs. Here are some of the benefits of HSRP license plates:
- Reduced Vehicle Theft: Tampering with HSRPs is a complex task due to the non-reusable snap locks and tamper-evident features. This discourages theft attempts and makes it easier to track stolen vehicles.
- Improved Law Enforcement: HSRPs’ distinctive laser-engraved codes make it possible to quickly and precisely identify vehicles. This makes it easier for authorities to catch criminals and investigate traffic violations.
- Curbing Fake Plates: HSRPs are difficult to counterfeit because of their sophisticated security features. This minimises the use of vehicles with fake plates for illegal activities.
Importance of Authenticity: HSRP vs. Normal Number Plates
Keeping a vehicle safe and following the law necessitates the authenticity of the number plate. Due to their lack of robust security features, standard plates are easy to duplicate or alter, raising several legal and security concerns. These issues can have serious repercussions, including the use of unauthorised vehicles for evading law enforcement. HSRPs effectively mitigate these risks by incorporating secure features that ensure accurate tracking and identification of each vehicle.
How to Identify Fake HSRP Number Plates
Unfortunately, with the growing importance of HSRPs, incidents of fake plates are also emerging. Here’s how to be vigilant and spot a fake high-security number plate:
- Hologram Quality: A high-quality, precisely placed hologram is present in genuine HSRPs. If the hologram looks abnormal, blurry or low quality, it is probably a fake number plate.
- Material Quality: The high-quality aluminium used in the original HSRPs gives the impression of being sturdy and long-lasting. Fake plates frequently seem light and fragile.
- Laser Code Verification: The laser code etched on the plate should match the vehicle’s registration information. Discrepancies between the code and registration details are a red flag.
How to Identify Fake HSRP Number Plates
Fake HSRP plates endanger one’s own safety and that of others. Since criminal activity frequently involves the use of vehicles with fake plates, it is challenging for law enforcement to identify and get back stolen vehicles.
Conclusion
In terms of vehicle security measures, the switch from standard number plates to HSRPs represents a significant advancement. Understanding the importance of HSRPs and verifying the authenticity of the number plates as responsible vehicle owners is essential for protection against fraud and theft. We can make the transportation ecosystem safer and more secure for everyone by opting for HSRPs and being vigilant against fake plates.
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