Kias and Hyundais are being stolen in America at an alarming rate. Using a screwdriver and a USB cable, it’s trivially easy to steal one. Kia and Hyundai blame social media, but the problem is so overwhelming that several cities are suing the car manufacturer for creating a crime epidemic by electing not to build a $100 anti-theft device into some models.

This week on Cyber, Motherboard Reporter Aaron Gordon stops by to walk us through what’s really behind the viral crime wave.

‘Kia Boys’ Trend Fueling Nationwide Crime Wave Is Running Rampant on Instagram

What It’s Like To Own the Cars That Became a Viral Sensation To Steal

Kia and Hyundai Blame TikTok and Instagram For Their Cars Getting Stolen

U.S. Cities Have a Staggering Problem of Kia and Hyundai Thefts. This Data Shows It.

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World roundup: May 20 2025