Is this a thing now?

[GingerBeverage]

Just driving around without a care with a hidden plate?

Have you seen this before? I do know that some people cover their plates going into LTNs now.

That's illegal...

Exactly what I was about to say. Hopefully they'll get pulled up for it sometime soon.

It's illegal.

People break the law all the time-so yes, that is a 'thing'. They'll probably get caught.

Not a particularly sensible ‘thing’, given it’s illegal, but I am sure it happens. You used to see it a lot with motor bikes. If people want to do this, well crack on if you want, but don’t moan about the fine.

It's better just to stick a leaf to it rather than duct tape

What’s the point?

It prevents ANPR systems from reading the registration, generally to avoid congestion /emission zone charges and speed cameras. It can also avoid triggering the ANPR detection of uninsured, untaxed vehicles etc, and garage fuel theft.

However it doesn’t stop the camera from taking a photograph, and have the potential to build a bigger case at a later date once all the failed detections are linked once the driver has been stopped by the police

They may be driving around like that in general (which adds to the showing of stupidity) or at particular times in particular areas - such as for avoiding congestion / emission fees or are about to or have just come from a garage to get free fuel