The flaw in the car’s ignition system was brought to light by a TikTok challenge.

Police in Howard County are warning people about an uptick in thefts of two popular car brands. A viral TikTok video has exposed a design flaw in the ignition systems of Kia and Hyundai automobiles that makes it easier for crooks to steal them.

The thefts are part of a larger trend nationwide that is impacting owners of Kia and Hyundais made between 2016 and 2021. Police are investigating the burglaries and encouraging owners to use steering wheel locks or buy a security kit.

The cars impacted are 2016-2021 Hyundai sedans, SUVS, and 2011-2021 Kia models that use a key to start the car. A social media challenge shows the would-be robbers how to hot-wire the car's ignition switch with a USB cable. Most cars with a modern key system have an engine mobilizer that will only allow the car to start after it recognizes a chip in the key. Because these cars don’t have an engine mobilizer, a thief can easily pry off the ignition cover and use the USB cord to start the car.

Police say the challenge has caught the eye of teens and young adults and they believe many of the thefts are by groups of kids.

Howard County Police are encouraging anyone who owns one of these cars to take the following steps to prevent their cars from being stolen:

• Get a steering wheel lock. Devices like “The Club” lock the steering wheel in place so the car cannot be driven.
• Buy a Hyundai security kit. Hyundai has developed a security kit that can be installed by your local dealer, call Hyundai's Consumer Assistance for more information at 800–633–5151.
• Park in your garage if possible or in a well-lit secured area.

If you have any information regarding the recent thefts of these cars contact Howard County Police at 410-313-STOP or email [email protected].