Is the Digital Electronic license plate the California hacker’s paradise?

The California State Assembly is considering a bill in the next few days that would green-light “Digital Electronic License Plate” technology. These digi-plates would turn any license plate into a mobile advertising space. With no formal opposition ready to debate any of these plates, are you going to see them on the road within the next year?

Article Source: Digital Electronic License Plate – California hacker’s paradise by Car Deal Expert

What exactly are digital electronic license plates?

The bill making its way through the California legislature gives the DMV permission to work with companies creating these “Smart Plates.” These license plates are small, pre-programmed screens. During normal operation of the automobile (read: driving along the road) the plate displays the license plate number to all who view it. If you stop for 3 or four seconds, it will display something else. The idea is that these plates could be able to display advertising, a personalized message, or anything else that can be put into pixels.

Why the e-plate may be good

The California Assembly is set on the DELP for one reason: budget. A $ 19 billion budget hole has left the state looking for any and each way to bring in additional cash. With a lot more than 32 million registered autos in the state, these e-plates would give advertisers millions of opportunities make an effort to pay the state for advertising. These e-plates would also give the chance for residents to pay more money for some more personalization on their cars. Budget wins.

The Digital license plate being a bad idea

Though the state budget of California may benefit from approving DLEP e-plates, it may eventually cost the state even more money. First, these electronic license plates would change your license plate at the press of a button – certainly attractive to speeders, red-light runners and criminals of all types who could hack their plates to make their numbers obstructed or invisible. Second, would it really be a good idea to turn every vehicle in California into a flashing neon billboard? Which company wants to be the one that causes crashes? Would you want to see more ads in town? There are also property rights concerns. Does the state have the rights to sell space on private property for advertisements the drivers wouldn’t make a cent on?

What do you think?