January 1, TikTok Theft Challenge Has Car Owners on High Alert

Police are warning Kia and Hyundai owners to remain on high alert.

A viral TikTok challenge has thieves stealing certain 2010-2021 makes and models of vehicles from both manufacturers.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) says car thieves are targeting these vehicles because they use a mechanical key — rather than a push-button or key fob — and use a USB cord to hot wire the car.

The car thieves, mostly consisting of young teenagers, post videos of themselves stealing the vehicles and driving around on TikTok under the hashtag “Kia Boys.” The videos garner millions of views.

“While all of our vehicles meet or exceed Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, unfortunately, our vehicles have been targeted in a coordinated effort on social media. Criminals are targeting our vehicles without engine immobilizers. Immobilizers became standard on all vehicles produced after Nov. 1, 2021,” a Hyundai Motor America spokesperson said in a statement.

The LASD has a few tips for vulnerable car owners to avoid being the TikTok challenge’s next victim:

• Install a steering wheel locking device
• Install a battery disconnect switch
• Install a kill switch (requires professional installation)
• Install an aftermarket car alarm (requires professional installation)
• Lock all windows and doors
• Park in a well-lit area
• Park in a secured location (i.e., garage, parking structure, etc.)
• Install GPS device

Source: Fox 11