The absence of an immobilizer has turned a hack shared on TikTok into a widespread issue, with teenagers, some as young as 10, breaking into cars to steal Kia and Hyundai models, often crashing into poles or other vehicles. This phenomenon, known as the “Kia Challenge,” has created a wave of car thefts across the nation.
The so-called “Kia Boys” engage in these activities for online views, recording their exploits and posting them on the Internet. They crave the clicks and are willing to perform dangerous stunts in stolen vehicles, including high-speed chases and reckless driving, which often leads to accidents. The desire for social media fame has driven these young thieves to extreme lengths, making Kia and Hyundai owners particularly vulnerable to those looking to steal Kia vehicles.
State Police in Reading report that the Kia Boys have become adept at exploiting vulnerabilities in Kia and Hyundai vehicles. It takes them just 25 seconds to steal Kia cars that haven’t been updated with anti-theft measures. Their method involves breaking a car’s side window, entering the vehicle, dismantling the steering column, and hotwiring the car—all within 25 seconds, following techniques they learned from online videos. This quick and efficient process has been perfected and widely disseminated through social media platforms, making it easy for even inexperienced thieves to replicate and steal Kia vehicles.
Police confirm that most of those stealing Kias and Hyundais are juveniles, primarily influenced by the viral “Kia Challenge” on TikTok, which provides detailed instructions on how to break into and start these cars quickly. This trend has become so pervasive that it’s not uncommon to hear of multiple car thefts in a single neighborhood, all traced back to the same method used to steal Kia vehicles.
Despite Hyundai and Kia releasing anti-theft patches, the number of thefts remains concerning. Police in various regions report an increase in car thefts compared to previous years, with no signs of slowing down in 2024. These patches, while effective for those who have installed them, have not been universally adopted, leaving many vehicles still at risk of being targeted by those looking to steal Kia cars.
On a somewhat positive note, police have been able to recover more stolen cars without significant damage. The Kia Boys typically seek a quick joyride, taking the first unpatched Kia or Hyundai they find. This has turned these vehicles into an unintentional, owner-funded ride-sharing service, with “customers” showing little regard for potential damage. The stolen cars are often found abandoned after being used for a short period, sometimes with minor damage, but the frequency of these incidents has increased the burden on law enforcement and car owners dealing with those who steal Kia vehicles.
Police recommend standard safety measures, such as installing a steering wheel lock, to prevent thieves from driving off with the car. However, this doesn’t deter the initial break-in, often resulting in costly damages before the thief realizes they cannot steal Kia vehicles. The physical damage to the vehicle from these break-in attempts can be extensive, including broken windows, damaged steering columns, and compromised ignition systems.
Owners are also advised to install tracking devices, like Apple AirTags, to monitor their vehicle’s location if it gets stolen. Police use real-time location data to track suspects and attempt recovery before significant damage occurs. Promptly reporting the theft and having a patrol car nearby greatly increase the chances of recovering the vehicle, as thieves usually abandon the car when they notice the police. These tracking devices have proven to be an effective tool in the fight against car theft, providing law enforcement with crucial information that can lead to the quick recovery of stolen vehicles taken by those aiming to steal Kia cars.
Additionally, vehicle owners should stay informed about the latest security updates and patches provided by manufacturers. Regularly updating the car’s software and installing any recommended security enhancements can significantly reduce the risk of theft. Community awareness and cooperation with local law enforcement can also play a vital role in preventing these crimes. Sharing information about suspicious activities and participating in neighborhood watch programs can help create a safer environment for everyone, reducing opportunities for thieves to steal Kia vehicles.
In conclusion, the trend of stealing Kia and Hyundai vehicles, fueled by social media challenges and the thrill of gaining online notoriety, has highlighted the importance of robust vehicle security measures. While manufacturers and law enforcement are working to address these vulnerabilities, car owners must also take proactive steps to protect their vehicles from those looking to steal Kia cars. The combined efforts of technology, vigilance, and community support can help mitigate the impact of this disturbing trend and ensure a safer future for car owners.
