Hyundai and Kia, two of the most popular car brands in the world, have recently been targeted by New York City authorities due to a security vulnerability that has resulted in a surge of thefts driven by social media. The issue has become so serious that the NYPD has issued a warning to all Hyundai and Kia owners in the city to be extra vigilant and take steps to protect their vehicles.
The problem appears to stem from a flaw in the keyless entry system used by both Hyundai and Kia. This system allows drivers to unlock their cars and start the engine without having to use a physical key. Instead, they simply need to have the key fob in their possession and press a button on the door handle or dashboard.
However, it seems that this system can be easily hacked by thieves using a device known as a “relay box”. This box can intercept the signal sent between the key fob and the car, allowing the thief to unlock the doors and start the engine without ever having to physically touch the key fob.
Once the thief has gained access to the car, they can then drive it away or strip it for parts. In many cases, they will then post pictures or videos of their exploits on social media, which can then inspire copycat crimes.
The surge in thefts has been particularly pronounced in New York City, where there have been numerous reports of Hyundai and Kia vehicles being stolen in broad daylight. The NYPD has warned that these thefts are not limited to any particular make or model of car, and that all Hyundai and Kia owners should be on high alert.
So what can you do to protect your vehicle? The first step is to be aware of the problem and take steps to secure your car. This might include parking in well-lit areas, using a steering wheel lock or other anti-theft device, or even installing a GPS tracking system.
You should also be careful about what you post on social media. Avoid sharing pictures or videos of your car that might give thieves clues about where you live or work. And if you do see suspicious activity around your vehicle, don’t hesitate to call the police.
Ultimately, the key to preventing these thefts is for Hyundai and Kia to address the security vulnerability in their keyless entry systems. Until they do, however, it’s up to individual car owners to take steps to protect their vehicles and stay one step ahead of the thieves.
