HPD: Two Types of Cars Targeted in TikTok Challenge

HAGERSTOWN, MD — The Hagerstown Police Department says in the month of May there have been 12 incidents of vehicle theft or damage they believe is part of a  TikTok trend.

A release from the HPD explains, “These videos circulate on the TikTok social media site showing how to steal certain models of Hyundai and Kia cars.”

HPD reports it’s now happening in the city of f Hagerstown, largely in the North End community.

“Most events have happened in the overnight hours and we have increased our patrols in the areas most affected. Typically the offender(s) smash a window to gain entry into the vehicle and tamper with the steering column/ignition.”

Automakers of Hyundai and Kia cars are offering free security software updates following a nationwide surge in thefts, according to the police department, which cautions vehicle owners to contact their local dealership to see if they are eligible for a steering wheel lock