The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), together with the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud and the International Association of Special Investigation Units, has sent a joint letter to YouTube requesting the social media platform to take down all videos that provide “how to” tutorials on carjacking Kia and Hyundai automobiles.
The organizations moved in response to the sudden spike in auto theft cases involving automobiles manufactured by Kia and Hyundai. It was found that certain cars – such as the Kia Rio and the Hyundai Accent – lack computer chips for theft “immobilizer” systems, allowing thieves to easily start the car and drive them away. Some thieves have even made instructional videos on how to perform the theft procedure using just a screwdriver and a USB cable, which have been shared on platforms such as YouTube and TikTok.
