CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Nearly four million vehicles are targets of a recent car theft trend and, on Friday, local officials are helping crack down on the crime.
Millions of Hyundai and Kia vehicles continue to be big targets for car thefts and it's all because of a popular social media challenge exploiting a software flaw.
A viral social media video back in 2022 put a spotlight on the Korean automaker.
The cars didn't have an anti-theft mechanism, making them easier to hijack using a simple USB cord.
So far this year, 70% of cars stolen in Charlotte have been Hyundais and Kias.
But, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is hoping a new program will crack down on the trend.
Starting Friday, CMPD is partnering with Hyundai for a three-day event where car owners can get anti-theft technology installed in their car.
Officials say, without the technology, your car could still be at risk.
The event will be open Friday through Sunday at the PNC Music Pavilion.
No registration is required for the event.
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