Home Latest Cyber Security News | Network Security Hacking Hyundai, Kia Release An Emergency Patch For an Actively Exploited Vulnerability

Hyundai, Kia Release An Emergency Patch For an Actively Exploited Vulnerability

by Abeerah Hashim
Kia Dealer Portal Vulnerability Risked Millions of Cars

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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