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Identifying DataDotDNA®
What does DataDotDNA®
look like?
Each DataDotDNA is the size of a grain of sand and is laser etched
with a unique identifying code. Hundreds of the tiny dots are applied
onto the protected asset with an ultraviolet adhesive.

(Click to see larger image)
How do I find the
DataDotDNA®?
The adhesive in which DataDotDNA is suspended has a UV trace, after
application of the DataDotDNA to the item the adhesive dries clear.
Location of the dots on an item can be undertaken using an Ultra Violet
light. The areas in which the DataDotDNA are applied can been seen under
UV light
Cars and personal items marked with DataDotDNA will usually display a
decal advertising the fact that DataDotDNA has been applied to the item.
Some of the decals are detailed below
  
Where am I most likely to find DataDotDNA® applied on a personal asset?
All DataDotDNA kits include a sheet showing recommended application
points on the particular type of item to which the kit is targeted. For
example, the Motorcycle kits have a sheet showing the suggested
application points for a Motorcycle and ATV.
Of course an individual who is applying DataDotDNA to an item may or
may not follow our recommendations.
Where am I most likely to find DataDotDNA® applied on a car?

How do I view the
DataDotDNA®?
Using a 30x magnification viewer the information on DataDotDNA can be
clearly read.
What information am I looking for on the DataDotDNA®?
VIN
DataDotDNA®– applied only to motor vehicles.
When DataDotDNA has been found on a motor vehicle the data on the dot
can be read using 30 x magnification.
Each DataDotDNA applied to a motor vehicle contains that vehicle’s
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). To trace the rightful owner, Police
access the Land Transport Database.
Variations of the VIN code are as follows:
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Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) DOT |
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Nuclear DataDotDNA |
|
Replacement VIN Dot |

An OEM dot is the standard DataDot DNA
applied to cars on arrival in New Zealand. The only
variation to this dot is when DataDots are applied to an
older car, there is an “A” prefix to the VIN denoting
“aftermarket” |

This variation is used very rarely in the
case of human error at application when an incorrect set of
DataDotDNA has been applied to a vehicle. The Nuclear dot
contains the correct VIN for that vehicle. It is easily
recognisable as it displays the nuclear symbol |

This variation is applied in the case of a
vehicle being repaired after an accident |
PIN DataDotDNA®–
applied to any item.
When DataDotDNA has been found on an object the data on the dot can
be read using 30 x magnification. The information on the DataDot can be
checked using the DataDot International Database.
Each DataDotDNA code has a unique personal identification number
(PIN) registered to the item’s rightful owner. The PIN is registered
alongside one of the following means of identification
- Passport
- Drivers Licence
- IRD number
Passport, Drivers Licence and IRD numbers can all be traced by Police
through the relevant databases. These numbers are all life-time numbers
and do not change as personal information like phone numbers and
addresses change. In the case of passports, numbers do change with
re-issue; however a record is kept of the previous passport number.
Information on PIN DataDotDNA

What do I do
once I have the information?
Logon to the DataDot International Database and follow the procedures
for NZ Police to access information regarding the recovered properties
rightful owner.
NOTE:
All ownership and personal information is stored on
a secure database known as the DataDot International Database.
Access to this database is restricted to authorised
DataDot Technology staff and New Zealand Police. |