6 Vehicles Stolen Recently In Phoenixville, Police Urge Vigilance

PHOENIXVILLE, PA — Thieves have stolen six Hyundai and Kia vehicles from Phoenixville's streets in the past two months, authorities said, warning residents to take extra precautions in the local areas.

Authorities say that social media "challenges" are to blame. Specifically, TikTok videos instructing criminals on exactly how to steal these two types of cars have led to a massive increase in thefts across the region.

In the recent Phoenixville thefts, all six of the cars were left unlocked.

"Hyundai and Kia vehicles made between 2011-2022 need an update from the dealer to install immobilization software," Phoenixville police shared. "Your vehicle can easily be stolen without the update. The update will confirm your vehicle's electronic code with the correct key code before starting. Call your local dealership and get the update."

The update takes about an hour to install, police said.

Without the update, authorities urge owners of 2011-2022 Hyundais and Kias to get a steering wheel lock.