New Bedford Police Are Leaving Warning Cards on Certain Hyundais and Kias—Here’s Why

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — New Bedford residents who drive certain Hyundai or Kia vehicles may find cards on their vehicle from the police warning them that their vehicle may be a target for auto theft.

Rest assured, these cards are legitimately from the New Bedford Police and they are in response to the “Kia Challenge” that has taken hold online over the past few years.

Police spokesperson Holly Huntoon told WBSM that the department has begun placing these informational cards on select Hyundai and Kia vehicles “as part of a crime prevention and community outreach initiative.”

“The goal is simply to make owners aware that these vehicles have been targeted nationwide and to encourage them to take a few extra precautions to reduce the risk of theft,” she said, noting that the cards are similar to the department’s “lock your vehicle” reminders.

Understanding the Nationwide 'Kia Challenge' Trend

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, the so-called “Kia Challenge” began with a group of teens in Milwaukee, Wisconsin that called themselves the “Kia Boys.” Back in 2021, these “Kia Boys” began posting “demonstrating how to quickly steal certain model Hyundai and Kia vehicles.”

“Hyundai and Kia vehicle thefts surged nationwide in the summer of 2022, increasing 95% from 2021,” the NICB reported, noting that the trending challenge “enticed teenagers across the country, many of whom were not even old enough to obtain a driver’s license, to film themselves stealing Hyundai and Kia vehicles.”

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Which Vehicle Models Are Most at Risk?

The target vehicles for the thefts are certain 2011-2021 Kia models, and 2015-2021 Hyundai models, that are not equipped with engine immobilizers. However, that doesn’t mean those are the only models that are prone to break-ins.

“It's important to emphasize the fact that thieves are often unaware of which particular models or years have the security vulnerability,” Huntoon said. “They only find out after having already broken into the vehicle. Therefore, all models and years are potentially at risk.”

How Are New Bedford Police Combatting the ‘Kia Challenge?’

Huntoon said officers who see a Hyundai or Kia while on patrol will leave a card on the vehicle. The cards, which have both English and Spanish on them, offer practical tips such as making sure your vehicle is locked, removing keys, parking in well-lit areas when possible, and consider using a steering wheel lock.

Courtesy New Bedford Police

Local Hyundai or Kia dealerships might also be able to offer some assistance.

“Owners should contact their local dealerships to confirm that any available anti-theft software updates or security enhancements have been installed,” Huntoon said. “These security updates are quick and will often be provided free of charge.”

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The cards also encourage anyone who sees something suspicious to contact New Bedford Police at (508) 991-6350, or if it is an emergency, dial 911.

“Crime prevention is most effective when we can partner with the community before a crime occurs, and this initiative is another way for our officers to engage with residents in a positive, proactive manner,” Huntoon said.