Industry observers say the term is being misused by some - from media outlets to online retailers - who are incorrectly linking legal 3D and 4D number plates to the term.

UK 3D and 4D number plate rules are unclear and confusing Regtransfers CEO, Mark Trimbee, weighs-in on the confusion around 3D and 4D number plates, calling for clearer guidance for motorists.

Another area where many motorists, perhaps unknowingly, fall foul of the law as regards their number plates is with 3D and 4D number plates. While raised characters are allowed, multiple shades to ...

These 'ghost plates' come in the form of illegal 3D and 4D number plates. In response to the surge in their usage, police forces are arming themselves with advanced cameras capable of spotting ...

They are also known as 3D or 4D plates. ... "Number plates can be used to identify a vehicle, so altering the original letters or numbers on the plate is illegal. Article continues below ...

A study of 5,000 drivers whose cars bear the so-called 4D plates has found that almost all of them have an IQ in the top two percentile; the threshold for admittance to Mensa.