The KIA TikTok Challenge made its way to Reno this month.
The Reno Police Department provides tips for car owners to help protect their vehicles from theft.
In the past, we’ve seen dangerous TikTok trends like the Tide Pod Challenge, or sneaky licks challenge where students have been destroying bathrooms in schools.
Now, people are walking around with a USB cable to steal Kia and Hyundai cars.
While those who do may think it is a funny trend, if caught, the consequences could be very dire.
“This results in criminal charges, so we have everything from burglary to carjacking to possession of a stolen vehicle and these are things that can result in jail time if convicted,” said Stephen Greenlee, Public Information Officer for the Reno Police Department.
Since August 11, Refugee Protection Police have responded to more than 20 such incidents.
These accidents tend to happen to 2011 to 2021 KIA models, and those that use a key to start.
RPD recommends that people get anti-theft devices in the steering wheel, or key lock that is connected to the cars electrical system.
“So, any type of device can be a kill switch for your vehicle where it basically disconnects the electrical system,” Officer Greenlee said. “That would be another great option. Those thieves wouldn’t be looking for that as a deterrent. So, they probably wouldn’t know to deactivate that switch.”
KIA dealers also offer a software update on select eligible vehicles.
If you are interested in whether your vehicle qualifies, the phone number is 800-333-4542.
While the cases are still being investigated, RPD says they are following up on any leads they should take this case forward.
They say if you stumble across a TikTok video of a challenge in this area, notify them immediately.
“You know, make sure you say you can go online and file a police report online and put the link or see if you can download the video and attach it,” Officer Greenlee said. “This would be a huge help to use so we can target and find out who is stealing these vehicles and maybe we can find and contact that person.”
The department is also asking parents to monitor their children on TikTok to see if they are directly or indirectly participating in the trend.
“So, pay attention, monitor their social media accounts and pay attention to that key phrase if they are looking for a challenge to a Kia or Hyundai,” Officer Greenlee said.
The KIA dealer at Reno does not sell aftermarket anti-theft devices, but you can find them online.
