Automaker Kia is under renewed pressure to act as thefts of its vehicles continue to rise. In Atlanta, incidents of Kia car thefts have increased 700%, according to a local news report.
Citing Atlanta police statements made at a Public Safety Committee meeting in August 2023, Atlanta News First reported that Kia thefts in Atlanta are on an unprecedented pace.
The developments come several months after Kia and Hyundai reached a $200 million settlement to end a class-action lawsuit brought by car owners whose vehicles had been stolen. The plaintiffs alleged that the automakers made their cars easier to steal.
. In October, an East Point resident initiated a class action lawsuit against the automakers, alleging that newer Kia and Hyundai models lacked immobilizers. Immobilizers are security features that prevent unauthorized individuals from using an unprogrammed key or key fob to steal a vehicle.
Initially, law enforcement attributed this increase in thefts to a social media challenge, wherein criminals stole Kia and Hyundai models and shared their actions using the hashtag #kiaboyz.
On just about any social media site, under the hashtag #kiaboyz, you’ll find some debauchery.
What Is Kia Doing About Car Thefts?
For its part Kia says it’s been working on various technologies and security measures to prevent car thefts. These efforts often include:
Keyless Entry and Start Systems: Implementing advanced keyless entry and start systems with encryption to make it harder for thieves to clone key fobs.
Immobilizers: Installing immobilizer systems that prevent the engine from starting without the correct key or fob.
Alarms and Anti-Theft Systems: Equipping vehicles with alarms, motion sensors, and anti-theft systems to deter thieves.
GPS Tracking: Many manufacturers offer optional GPS tracking systems that can help locate a stolen vehicle.
Remote Shutdown: Some advanced systems allow owners or law enforcement to remotely disable a stolen vehicle.
Secure Software Updates: Regularly updating the vehicle’s software to patch security vulnerabilities and improve overall security.
Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Working closely with law enforcement agencies to recover stolen vehicles and apprehend thieves.
Final Word
Law enforcement in the Atlanta area continues to probe the Kia Boyz but it’s going to take police as well as the public’s help to stop auto thefts in the metro area.
The automobile industry as a whole is going to have to do more to educate customers about best practices for preventing car theft, such as not leaving valuables in the car and locking doors and windows.