Kia Challenge on TikTok: 4 tips to avoid getting your car stolen
The TikTok trend is the subject of increased warnings from the city of New York to owners of Kia and Hyundai vehicles because it may make some vehicles more likely to be stolen. It has also been referred to as the 'Kia Challenge' since it takes advantage of a design flaw in some Kia and Hyundai vehicles that permits the ignition to be bypassed via a USB connection.
Viewers may see in the video how to easily unlock the steering column and start the cars without a key. The NYPD has been using social media to broadcast warnings about the trend because it has spread so widely.
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What is the viral Kia/Hyundai challenge on TikTok?
The NHTSA claims that an online challenge on TikTok highlighted the absence of an immobilizer in the vehicles that resulted in at least 14 reported collisions and eight fatalities. The challenge teaches TikTok viewers how to hot-wire Kia and Hyundai vehicles using a USB connection and a screwdriver.
In October 2022, a police commissioner suggested that the TikTok challenge may have been to blame for a car accident in Buffalo, New York that claimed the lives of four teens.The swerving Kia had a total of six children inside when it crashed, according to Buffalo police.The automobile was thought to have been stolen, as per ABC7.
Tips to avoid car theft
Let us take a look at some of the tips and ways that would help you protect your Kia/Hyundai car from theft due to the viral TikTok trend.
1. Installing anti-theft system
One of the ways to avoid getting your car stolen is by installing anti-theft systems such as a steering lock or a kill switch. These devices are really helpful as they would cut down the ignition and lock the steering which would avoid the car being stolen.
2. Installing alarm system
Another way to avoid car theft is by installing an alarm system. This would help in raising a loud alarm during a car theft which would alert people near the car and would ultimately help in avoiding any kind of car theft.
3. Parking the car near your home
It is always preferable that you should park your car near your home which would greatly reduce the chances of car theft. However, even while parking near your home, it is always necessary to keep your cars locked and equipped with anti-theft systems.
4. Do not keep your car/AC on
One of the best ways to avoid your car getting stolen is by switching off your car and the AC while it is parked. If the engine and AC is on while the car is parked, it becomes much easier for the thieves to steal the car as the ignition is already on.
