Drivers use various methods to alter license plates to avoid traffic fines.

"Cold fines" are a form of traffic violation enforcement that takes place after a certain period of time has passed since the violation occurred. With this method, the owners of the violating vehicles are not immediately penalized; instead, images of the violation are recorded by cameras installed on the streets and sent to a processing center.

Therefore, using white paint, tape, decals, paper clips, mud, medical masks, etc., to partially cover or alter information on license plates is an act some road users are engaging in to evade traffic cameras. They often hide license plates by changing the letter F to E, the number 0 to 8, or the letter C to O.

This creates significant difficulties for law enforcement in sending violation notices to vehicle owners. In particular, it poses many unpredictable risks to security and order investigations (criminal tracing) and traffic accident investigations. Below are images of vehicle owners attempting to conceal their license plate information to evade responsibility if they violate traffic laws.

Expressing his disapproval of this phenomenon, Mr. TB, residing in Hai Ba Trung district, Hanoi, stated: "Cases like this need to be severely punished because from the moment they intentionally use black tape or decals to conceal their real license plates, they are showing a blatant disregard for the law. There have even been cases where drivers covered their license plates, caused accidents, and then fled the scene, making it difficult to identify the perpetrators even with photographic evidence. This is truly an irresponsible act towards the community."

Sharing the same view, Ms. PH, a member of a popular domestic automotive forum, said: "If this situation continues, many people will have to waste time explaining traffic violations they didn't commit. Even if they can't prove it, they might face the risk of being held responsible for these actions."

Since the beginning of this year, the fines for "modifying" license plates have also increased compared to the initial rates. According to Clause 9, Article 2 of Decree 123/2021/ND-CP, drivers of automobiles (including trailers or semi-trailers) and similar vehicles will be fined from VND 4,000,000 to VND 6,000,000 if they drive a vehicle without a complete license plate or with a license plate in the wrong position; with an illegible license plate; with a bent, obscured, or damaged license plate; or if they paint or add stickers that alter the letters, numbers, or color of the letters, numbers, or background of the license plate.

Despite being in effect since January 1, 2022, Decree 123/2021/ND-CP is still being violated by some irresponsible drivers, resulting in the highest possible fines for some individuals. Therefore, drivers need to ensure compliance with this regulation to maintain traffic safety for themselves and those around them.