Car makers Hyundai and Kia have rolled out an emergency update for multiple car models, addressing an actively exploited vulnerability. The vulnerability has been under attack for a few months, triggering a rise in car theft incidents. Therefore, users must update their car firmware immediately to avoid any mishaps.
Hyundai, Kia Rolled Out An Emergency Patch
According to a recent press release, the automakers Hyundai and Kia have released an emergency patch for a serious vulnerability under attack. Exploiting the flaw allows attackers to steal target vehicles using a USB cord.
The attack involves using a USB cord to hot wire older car models (2010-2021) that use mechanical keys. After its discovery, the unidentified discoverers quickly transformed it into a viral craze. Eventually, this car hacking trick emerged as a TikTok challenge in 2022, resulting in a surge in car thefts.
According to the reports, most thieves included youngsters, who took only a few seconds to steal a vulnerable car.
While the matter remained unaddressed for several months, the makers of the vulnerable car models, Hyundai and Kia, have now released a patch.
According to a press release from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), United States Department of Transportation, both automakers will provide the anti-theft software to car owners free of cost. Moreover, Hyundai will also provide relevant stickers indicating the cars’ equipment with anti-theft protection to fend off thieves.
In a separate press release, Hyundai shared the list of vulnerable car models, including over 4 million vehicles. From these, the software update will first roll out for the over 1 million vehicles belonging to the following models in February 2023.
- 2017-2020 Elantra
- 2015-2019 Sonata
- 2020-2021 Venue
Whereas the following models will receive the updates by June 2023.
- 2018-2022 Accent
- 2011-2016 Elantra
- 2021-2022 Elantra
- 2018-2020 Elantra GT
- 2011-2014 Genesis Coupe
- 2018-2022 Kona
- 2020-2021 Palisade
- 2013-2018 Santa Fe Sport
- 2013-2022 Santa Fe
- 2019 Santa Fe XL
- 2011-2014 Sonata
- 2011-2022 Tucson
- 2012-2017, 2019-2021 Veloster
While NHTSA has confirmed updates from KIA as well, the carmaker hasn’t made an official announcement yet.
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