A string of car thefts across the United States has prompted 17 state attorneys general to call for the recall of certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles. The thefts have been attributed to a vulnerability in the cars’ keyless entry systems, which allow thieves to gain access to the vehicles without a physical key.

The affected models include certain Kia Forte and Optima models, as well as Hyundai Sonata and Santa Fe vehicles manufactured between 2013 and 2019. The attorneys general argue that these cars are at a higher risk of theft due to the weakness in their keyless entry systems, which can be exploited by thieves using cheap devices known as “relay boxes.”

These devices work by intercepting the signals transmitted between the car’s key fob and the vehicle itself. By amplifying the signals, the relay boxes trick the car into thinking that the key fob is nearby, even if it is actually several meters away. This allows thieves to unlock the car and drive away without setting off any alarms or other security features.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, car thefts increased by 9.2% in 2020, with a total of 873,080 vehicles reported stolen. The rise in thefts has been attributed in part to the use of relay boxes, which have become more widely available and affordable in recent years.

The attorneys general of the 17 states, which include California, New York, and Texas, have sent a letter to Kia and Hyundai calling for them to recall the affected vehicles and provide a fix for the keyless entry vulnerability. The letter also calls on the car manufacturers to take steps to improve the security of their vehicles’ keyless entry systems in future models.

In response to the letter, Kia and Hyundai have acknowledged the issue and stated that they are working to address it. Both companies have released software updates for affected vehicles, which are designed to mitigate the risk of relay box attacks. However, the attorneys general argue that these updates are not enough and that a more comprehensive solution is needed to fully address the vulnerability.

The call for a recall of the affected vehicles highlights the growing concern around car security in an increasingly connected world. As more cars become equipped with keyless entry systems and other internet-connected features, the risk of cyber attacks and other security vulnerabilities is only likely to increase.

Consumers can take steps to protect themselves from car theft by being aware of the risks and taking precautions such as parking in well-lit areas, using steering wheel locks or other anti-theft devices, and keeping their key fobs in metal boxes or pouches that block the signals transmitted by relay boxes.

In conclusion, the wave of car thefts across the United States has highlighted the vulnerability of certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles to relay box attacks. The call for a recall of these vehicles by 17 state attorneys general underscores the need for car manufacturers to take security seriously and prioritize the safety of their customers. As car technology continues to evolve, it is important for both consumers and manufacturers to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting against cyber threats and other security risks.