All articles tagged with #vehicle security
Rivian has introduced the Rivian Digital Key, which uses Ultra-Wideband (UWB) and Near-Field Communication (NFC) to enhance security and convenience for vehicle access, allowing precise, secure, and backup-enabled entry even if the device is low on battery.
US police have issued a warning to drivers returning from Canada to be cautious of potential car theft, as many have found hidden AirTags inside their vehicles, possibly used by thieves to track, steal, and sell cars or transport drugs across the border. The trackers are often concealed under windshield wipers, in the front grille, or inside the vehicle, and Apple has released measures to help users detect and manage unknown AirTags.
Worcester police are warning car owners about an increase in thefts of Kias and Hyundais, potentially tied to a TikTok trend where car thieves, known as the "TikTok Boys," target these vehicles due to their lack of sophisticated software in vehicle immobilizers. Since November, 24 Hyundais and 12 Kias have been stolen in the city, with the thefts occurring across various areas. Police advise car owners to use steering wheel clubs, park in well-lit areas, and install GPS tracking services to protect their vehicles.
Nextbase has introduced the iQ, an AI-powered dashcam that offers various features to enhance vehicle security and driver safety. The dashcam uses artificial intelligence to monitor the vehicle at all times, detecting break-in attempts, driving incidents, and potential threats through facial recognition technology. It collects and stores data before and after an incident, which can be useful for insurance claims. The iQ also has Smart Sense Parking Mode to protect against theft, Emergency SOS Mode to call for help in case of an accident, and features like speed and distance limit notifications. It can even record and stream live video to a trusted person in case of an unsafe situation. The iQ dashcam is available in three models, with subscription plans offering additional features and storage.
The Killeen Police Department in Texas is warning residents about the viral "Kia Challenge," which has led to an increase in thefts of Kia and Hyundai models across the country. The challenge, shared on social media, demonstrates how to steal these specific car models using basic items. To prevent becoming a victim, the police recommend measures such as using free anti-theft software, parking in secured garages, taking the vehicle's key, locking all windows and doors, parking in well-lit areas, not leaving valuables in the car, applying a physical steering wheel lockbar, and blocking the targeted vehicle with another car.
KIA has rolled out a software upgrade for older models to prevent thefts, which includes a longer sounding alarm and a tweak in the ignition to stop the USB trick. The upgrade is free for eligible vehicles and takes 40 minutes to install. KIA has notified over 2.3 million owners around the country and expects to have all notified before June for the anti-theft upgrade. Stolen cars in Milwaukee have dropped 34% so far this year. Lupient KIA in Glendale has already upgraded about a thousand vehicles since the stolen car fix came out.
Devices sold online as "emergency start devices" for cars can be used by thieves to hack into a car's wire network through the headlights, according to car security experts. The hacking device sends a signal to the engine control unit via the controller area network (CAN) bus, which activates the car and unlocks it. Thieves can steal a car in as little as 30 seconds using this method. Over 1 million vehicles were stolen in the US in 2022, marking a 7% increase over 2021. Car owners can defend themselves by using a steering wheel lock.