Yeah, I mean if that is the worry about somebody needing a "replacement" title I would think that you would need more than the plate number . . . (maybe name, address, DL # and vin?) or otherwise like mentioned above . . . everybody driving down the road is open to that scam . . .
Just found at our AZ MVD site:
9) How do I apply for a duplicate title and what is the fee?When an Arizona title is lost, mutilated or becomes illegible, you, the owner of record, may apply for a duplicate title. Owner name, legal status, lienholder and vehicle information must remain the same. Only the address and/or vehicle location address may be changed.
You must complete a Title and Registration Application, form # 96-0236, (see #6 for legal status explanation), check the appropriate box at the top of the form. Only one owner’s signature is required, regardless of the number of owners or legal status.
You may submit the application at any MVD of authorized Third Party office or by mail to Mail Drop 555M, Motor Vehicle Division, PO Box 2100, Phoenix AZ 85001-2100.
The fee is $4.00. Photo identification may be required for walk-in customers.
The mutilated or illegible title must be surrendered at the time of application, when available; it is not necessary for the owner to sign-off the back of the title.
When the record shows a lien, the duplicate title will be sent to the lienholder of record, unless you present a lien clearance or power of attorney from the first lienholder of record and there are no other liens present on the vehicle record.