More than a year after Hyundai and Kia released anti-theft software updates, thefts of vehicles equipped with the new software are significantly decreasing, even as overall vehicle theft rates remain alarmingly high, according to a new analysis of insurance claim data.

The automakers introduced the updates in February last year, following a tenfold surge in thefts of specific Hyundai and Kia models over the past three years. This surge was triggered by social media posts demonstrating how to steal these vehicles.

As reported by Peter Valdes-Dapena for CNN, Hyundai and Kia’s anti-theft software is yielding positive results. “Whole vehicle” theft claims—insurance claims for the loss of the entire vehicle—are 64% lower among Hyundai and Kia cars that have received the software upgrade compared to similar cars without the upgrade, according to the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI).

Matt Moore, senior vice president of HLDI, an industry group supported by auto insurers, confirmed the effectiveness of the companies’ solution in a statement. This significant reduction in theft claims underscores the software’s critical role in enhancing vehicle security for Hyundai and Kia owners.

Read More:https://www.cnn.com/2024/08/07/business/thieves-hyundai-kia-new-security-software