New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency in a drastic response to an unprecedented wave of car thefts targeting specific Hyundai and Kia models, a crisis largely fuelled by social media tutorials.
The emergency order, announced on Wednesday, mobilises state resources to tackle a problem that has seen thefts of these vehicles skyrocket by a staggering 889% in New York City alone since 2022, and more than double statewide.
The TikTok Effect: How a Challenge Sparked a Crisis
At the heart of the epidemic is a viral social media trend, often shared on platforms like TikTok, that demonstrates how to steal certain Hyundai and Kia models manufactured between 2010 and 2021. These vehicles were produced without electronic immobilisers, a standard anti-theft feature that prevents the engine from starting without the correct key.
This vulnerability has been widely exploited, with thieves using a simple USB cable to bypass the ignition system, a method that has been dubbed the 'Kia Challenge'.
Beyond the Theft: A Ripple Effect of Consequences
Governor Hochul emphasised that the crisis extends far beyond the initial theft. "We're seeing this spin off into other criminal activity", she stated, highlighting how stolen vehicles are often used to commit further crimes, from reckless driving and armed robberies to more severe offences.
The surge has placed an immense burden on law enforcement agencies, courts, and insurance companies, disrupting lives and communities across the state.
New York's Multi-Pronged Counterattack
The state's emergency response includes a robust public awareness campaign. The state will distribute over 100,000 free steering wheel locks to affected vehicle owners through local police departments, a immediate physical deterrent for potential thieves.
Furthermore, authorities are launching a targeted digital campaign to combat the problem at its source. This effort will involve monitoring social media platforms and issuing warnings to users who view or share content promoting the theft methods.
Governor Hochul is also urging car owners to check with manufacturers for any available software updates designed to rectify the security flaw and to always lock their vehicles.
A National Problem with a Localised Solution
While this car theft trend has plagued cities across the United States, New York's declaration of a state of emergency marks one of the most significant governmental interventions to date. The move underscores the severity of the issue and the state's commitment to deploying every available tool to protect its residents and restore order.
