March 19, 2024 The Best Source of News, Culture, Lifestyle for Culver City, Mar Vista, Del Rey, Palms and West Los Angeles

TikTok Sparks Surge in Kia and Hyundai Thefts in Los Angeles

Social media platforms exacerbate vehicle thefts through security flaws

Kia and Hyundai vehicles have become a major target for car theft in the City of Los Angeles, with a 7 percent increase in thefts since 2021. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, social media platform TikTok has fueled these thefts, with many videos showing would-be thieves how to take advantage of security flaws in these cars.  

“Kia and Hyundai vehicles made up almost 13% of all vehicle thefts in the City of Los Angeles. In 2022, Kia and Hyundai vehicles account for almost 20% of all vehicle thefts, 7% increase for these vehicles,” the LAPD said in a recent community alert. 

The current Tik-Tok Kia/Hyundai social media challenge is believed to be a contributing factor to this rise in car thefts due to these models being produced between 2010 and 2021 without an ignition immobilizer, according to the LAPD. 

“The primary cause for the increase in vehicle thefts is that Kia and Hyundai vehicles, produced between 2010 thru 2021, are not equipped with an ignition immobilizer. Therefore, these vehicle ignitions can be compromised using a USB cable,” the LAPD said. 

According to the LAPD, there is not a specific model thieves are targeting. 

To reduce the risk of theft, owners should take steps such as installing a steering wheel locking device, battery disconnect switch, kill switch, aftermarket antitheft system, or GPS tracking device. Additionally, it is recommended that drivers park their cars in well-lit areas or secured locations and make sure all windows and doors are locked before leaving the vehicle. 

If anyone has additional information regarding vehicle thefts, they can contact their local LAPD Geographic Area Auto Detective at 1-877-527-3247 or visit www.lacrimestoppersorg and www.lapdonline.org respectively for anonymous tips and more information.

in Crime, News
Related Posts

Roadway Construction Alert at LAX: Plan Your Travel Accordingly

March 18, 2024

March 18, 2024

Lane Restrictions Scheduled Nightly from March 17 to March 23 After this weekend’s closures of Century Boulevard, which frustrated travelers...

Firearms Found After Police Pursuit Ends in West Los Angeles Neighborhood

March 18, 2024

March 18, 2024

Suspect Arrested Following Unintentional Discharge Incident A vehicle pursuit involving officers from the West Los Angeles Division on March 15,...

Tensley Wines to Take Part in Wine Masterclass in Culver City

March 17, 2024

March 17, 2024

Join Joey Tensley for an Exclusive Tasting Experience  Tensley Wines will participate in an exclusive Masterclass hosted by Total Wine...

Culver City Council Approves Monument Signs, Affordable Housing Initiatives

March 17, 2024

March 17, 2024

City leaders greenlight static signs for Culver Steps The Culver City Council has greenlit two static monument signs aimed at...

FBI Seeks Victims of Alleged Online Exploitation Scheme Allegedly Run by Resident of Santa Monica

March 17, 2024

March 17, 2024

Individuals Urged to Come Forward in Investigation of John Douglas Burch The FBI’s Philadelphia Field Office is urging individuals to...

(Video) Sarah Kate Ellis, President and CEO of GLAAD Responds to News of Nex Benedict’s Cause of Death

March 15, 2024

March 15, 2024

Sarah Kate Ellis, President and CEO of GLAAD, responds to the release of the Oklahoma Medical Examiner’s Ruling on Nex...

The Auld Fella: Brentwood and Culver City’s St. Patrick’s Weekend Destination

March 15, 2024

March 15, 2024

Join the Craic at The Auld Fella’s Celebrations: Dining, Drinking, Shenanigans If you are looking for an epic St. Patrick’s...

Venice Family Clinic Announces Inaugural HEART Gala to Celebrate Health and Art

March 15, 2024

March 15, 2024

Event Honors Creative Community and Supporters of Vital Health Care Services Venice Family Clinic, a non-profit community health center dedicated...

“Love Lies Bleeding” is Ripped: Actress Katy O’Brian Talks Love, Sex, and Vulnerability

March 15, 2024

March 15, 2024

Katy O’Brian is a Breakout Star Who Shines in Loving and Hilariously Violent Crime Film English film director Rose Glass’...

IRS Launches Direct File Pilot of Free Filing Tool for Taxpayers in California, 11 Other States

March 14, 2024

March 14, 2024

Free, Convenient Online Tax Filing Option Now Available for Eligible Individuals The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced the official launch...

Culver City Police Crack Down on DUIs During Weekend Spree

March 13, 2024

March 13, 2024

Multiple Arrests Made Following Alcohol-Related Incidents Culver City Police reported multiple DUI arrests last weekend following incidents involving drivers suspected...

MICHELIN Guide Unveils 10 New Culinary Stars in California, Anticipating 2024 Selections

March 13, 2024

March 13, 2024

9 Los Angeles Area and Beverly Hills Restaurants Featured as New Additions The prestigious MICHELIN Guide has announced the addition...

Chef Roy Choi Brings Tacos Por Vida to LA With Soft Opening in Palms

March 13, 2024

March 13, 2024

The Lines Are Already Growing at This Newest Roy Choi Taco Stand Celebrated chef Roy Choi is celebrating the debut...

Countdown to the 2024 Los Angeles Marathon: Road Closures Ahead

March 12, 2024

March 12, 2024

Annual Marathon Comes with Saint Patrick’s Day Twist in 2024 Just three days from now, the 2024 Los Angeles Marathon...

A New Civil Lawsuit Against Roman Polanski Has Moved Forward to Trial

March 12, 2024

March 12, 2024

Director Faces Allegations From 1973, Santa Monica Judge Sets Date A trial date of August 4, 2025, has been set...