NYC officials, NYPD call out TikTok theft challenge targeting Kias, Hyundais

The NYPD says it saw an average of 10 to 12 of these cars stolen monthly starting last September, with 100 total stolen vehicles by December.

News 12 Staff

Mar 30, 2023, 9:52 PM

Updated 558 days ago

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Elected officials and members of the NYPD called out the social media challenge growing on TikTok, targeting the theft of Kia and Hyundai car models.
The NYPD says it saw an average of 10 to 12 of these cars stolen monthly starting last September, with 100 total stolen vehicles by December.
Car models being targeted were made between 2010 and 2021. Mayor Eric Adams says that some thefts used a charging cable to hotwire the cars, which are then taken on joyrides and shared on social media.
Adams and NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell are urging education from parents to their kids and from the car manufacturers to the owners to raise awareness of the ongoing crime spree.
"Use a steering wheel locking device, always turn off the ignition and remove the keys when leaving your vehicle, close and lock all windows and doors, activate your vehicle's alarm system, and park in high traffic, well-lit areas whenever possible," said Sewell.
The NYPD says it's gaining ground on the thieves, with 109 arrests have been made this year for Kia and Hyundai thefts as of Sunday.