Following its release at the beginning of March, the DVLA has been quick to raise concern with regards to Auto Trader’s recent iPhone application that allows users to take a photo of a car number plate and obtain results from dealers selling the make and model.
The main problems have arisen in relation to the image recognition element of the app, which the DVLA believe conflicts with their strict code of ethics, as it allows the user to capture images of individual’s number plates.
Responding to the concerns, Auto Trader have defended the number plate application stating that the function only draws on publically available information and does not release owners details or any such information on where the vehicle is registered.
Honouring their stringent policy on customer security being a priority however, Auto Trader have agreed to comply with the DVLA’s request and have recently removed the ‘snap shot’ function for number plate from the app.
