News
M'sia warns against illegal vehicle plate-flipping devices sold online for as little as S$46
At the touch of a button.
September 16, 2025, 12:44 PM
An affordable vehicle licence plate flipper is now widely available on e-commerce platforms for as little as under S$50.
The easily obtainable tech has resulted in Malaysia authorities issuing a warning against motorists using the device or contemplating installing it, according to The Star.
Sold online
The devices sold by China-based sellers come in two variations that can change a vehicle's number plate at the touch of a remote control button.
A demo video on an e-commerce website showed one model using a built-in motor to rotate the original registration plate into a false one.
Another version lowers a panel to conceal the original number plate.
The devices are priced between RM150 (S$45.69) and RM350 (S$106.61) and made of metal and plastic.
They can reportedly be installed in under 10 minutes.
The device is touted as a product to protect registration plates from the elements.
However, the listings go on to state that it offers “enhanced security and privacy”.
On another e-commerce platform, the device is advertised as “licence plate covers to avoid camera tickets”.
Not new though
A search online showed that the concept is not new.
In May 2022, U.S. authorities found a Mercedes with a licence plate flipper during a traffic stop.
The news made headlines in Los Angeles at the time.
Malaysia authorities issue warning
Malaysia is looking into prohibiting the sale of such devices, The Star reported.
The device could aid motorists who try to evade speed-checking systems, red-light camera detection and toll regimes.
Motorists caught with such devices installed on their vehicles can face stern action under the Road Transport Act, the authorities warned.
It is an offence to display a registration number other than the approved number issued for a vehicle.
It is also an offence to display a vehicle registration plate in a misleading manner or one that is false.
Offenders can face jail time of up to a year or a fine of up to RM5,000 (S$1,523), or both, if convicted.
Top photos via nbclosangeles.com
