5 On Your Side: Kia has new fix to protect vehicles from viral thefts

▤ Summary

Kia finally has a fix for vehicles left vulnerable to a viral crime wave inspired by TikTok videos. In 2022, TikTok videos started circulating showing criminals how to bypass the ignition and steal certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles. The product is designed to reinforce the ignition cylinder body, preventing it from being removed using the method seen in TikTok videos, according to Kia’s media release. Dealerships will install the product and put a decal on the window saying the vehicle is equipped with enhanced theft protection. In announcing this latest update, Kia said nearly 940,000 vehicles have installed anti-theft software upgrades since January 2023.

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