FORT LAUDERDALE – A TikTok challenge came to Fort Lauderdale when five teenagers stole a USB cable from a Kia Optima on Tuesday.
The trend titled “Kia Boyz” caused a sensation on social media and became popular during the pandemic. Unsuspecting car owners find their cars stolen or stolen, and then start through USB cables like those used to charge iPhones.
Fort Lauderdale police said the teens stole a white 2012 Kia Optima and fled the 900 block of Northwest 17th Avenue.
Two of the five teenagers tried to flee but were temporarily detained by police. Authorities identified them as two 15-year-old males, both charged with carjacking.
CBS News Miami spoke with the automaker and learned it has taken steps for drivers. James Bell, head of corporate communications for Kia America, says they rolled out a software update in early 2023.
This factor affects approximately 2. 5 million Kia models with a metal key. Cars with instant start aren’t affected and Bell says about a million cars have already gotten the update.
The company has also made free wheel locks available to affected customers and will even send them to authorities who notice an increase in thefts in their area.
Kia also became aware of some other factor in December 2023 involving a small organization of vehicles, however, they also implemented a fix for this.
“We presented them with an anti-theft solution, which is a cylinder protection that covers the ignition,” he said.
Fort Lauderdale police say this trend is developing and they are dealing with this problem.
Drivers are asked to park in well-lit areas, lock their car door, and never leave their keys or valuables inside their vehicle.