ALERT: Protect Your Car the Right Way - Don’t Hide Your VIN

By Y.M. Lowy

Several members of our neighborhood were recently arrested and had their vehicles impounded for covering their vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). This is a warning that concealing a VIN, license plate, or registration sticker is illegal in New York and can carry serious consequences, including fines, arrests, and vehicle seizure.

In New York, it is illegal to cover your car’s VIN, license plates, or registration stickers under NY Vehicle & Traffic Law § 423-a, which prohibits concealing identifying numbers as a measure to prevent fraud. While some people may think covering the VIN protects their vehicle from theft, doing so is considered a violation and can lead to seizure of the vehicle.

There are safe, legal ways to keep your car protected. One of the best options is VIN etching, which permanently marks your car’s identification number on the glass. You can also use steering wheel locks, hidden kill switches, or OBD-II locks to keep your car secure without breaking the law.

Stay safe and avoid any unnecessary trouble with the authorities. If you want VIN etching done, just reach out to a Crime Prevention Officer at your local precinct.

illustration photo: Shutterstock