License plates once felt like harmless pieces of metal, but ghost car scams have changed the calculation. Thieves now pry plates off parked vehicles and bolt them onto another car, dodging tolls, tickets, and accountability while the rightful owner takes the blame.
Protecting yourself starts with awareness and a few simple habits, from anti-theft plate hardware to checking your vehicle regularly. Reporting a missing plate the moment you notice it can spare you a headache of fines and disputes down the line.