The UK government’s vehicle number plate recording system has approximately recorded the last 200 journeys by every vehicle owner in the country.
The revelation comes following the release of data obtained by the Automatic Number Plate Recognition database (ANPR), which comprises a network of 4,000 cameras.
The database, which contains 7.6 billion records, is updated with 14 million number plate images per day. This equates to every one of the 38 million UK motorists being logged by approximately 200 images.
In the 1990’s, the system was deployed as a means of monitoring traffic but former home secretary, Jacqui Smith, relaxed the rights to the information in 2008.
This will come as a great shock to those looking to protect their privacy as this data may be passed on to governments throughout Europe and even America.
The once innocent traffic aid has since been used to to detect uninsured drivers, fighting terrorism and untaxed and stolen vehicles.
Once collected, the data can remain on record for up to five years which will cause further concern for those who are worried about their details getting into the wrong hands.
There are thousands of number plates up for sale at the next DVLA auction, which will take place at the Heritage Motor Centre, Warwickshire on 4th, 5th, 6th August 2010.
Find the perfect number plate to make your car stand out from the crowd. There’s something for all the family, with ‘DAD 5S’ starting at £400, ‘56 ME’ starting at £2700 and ‘MAM 700D’ starting at £400.
To get some ideas of the bargains available and help from experienced professionals, just pick up the phone and call 01642 36 37 38 to speak with one of the friendly advisers at National Numbers.
