As Thefts Of 2 Car Brands Spikes, Western Mass Police Urge Owners To Update Security Software

After a series of viral social media videos earlier this year exposed a security flaw in models of Hyundai and Kia cars that make them easier to steal, there has been a spike in thefts of those vehicles.

Police are asking Hyundai and Kia drivers to speak to their dealerships to get security updates after a spike in thefts following a social media trend that showed how easily the cars could be stolen.
Photo Credit: *Unsplash/Jakob Owens*

Josh Lanier

04/24/2023 12:45 p.m.

The "Kia Boyz" trend showed how some cars could be easily hot-wired using a USB cable.

In Springfield, a dozen Hyundai and Kia cars were stolen in April, with an additional 13 break-ins, police said. Officers arrested three minors and charged them with the thefts.

Police urge Hyundai and Kia owners to reach out to dealerships about a software update to patch the problem.

Kia and Hyundai are working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to make the transition easier for owners. Hyundai owners can call 800-633-5151, and Kia owners can call 800-333-4542 for information on the free update.

About 3.8 million Hyundais and 4.5 million Kias are eligible for the software update.

Hyundai will also provide customers with a window sticker alerting would-be thieves that the vehicle is equipped with anti-theft protection.

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