Specific Car Brands Are Being Targeted by Thieves in Poughkeepsie

The owners of two popular brands of cars have been warned by the City of Poughkeepsie Police Department after a recent increase in break-ins, thefts, and attempted thefts.

If you are fortunate enough to own a car or truck, you probably take a lot of pride in the vehicle you drive. Most of us do, and that's why we all must take the proper precautions to make sure we don't fall victim to car thieves.

Car Owners Warned in Poughkeepsie, NY

According to the City of Poughkeepsie Police Department, the city has seen a recent increase in break-ins, thefts, and attempted thefts involving the car brands Kia and Hyundai. Police didn't provide much information regarding the number of Kia and Hyundai incidents that have been reported in Poughkeepsie, but did recommend owners take a few precautions.

Kia & Hyundai Thefts Rise in Poughkeepsie

The department recommends that all owners take the following precautions:

• Always lock your car
• Remove all valuables, or hide them out of sight
• Park in well-lit areas with security camera coverage if possible
• Never leave your keys in your vehicle
• Never leave your vehicle running while unattended

They also recommend that owners contact the specific car dealers about available anti-theft software updates. The anti-theft software updates are crucial to keeping both Kia and Hyundai vehicles safe from thieves.

"Kia Boys" in Poughkeepsie?

If the vehicle isn't updated, it could be easily stolen after a 2022 trend called "The Kia Boys" showed thieves how to use a simple USB connector to bypass ignition systems of models made between 2011 and 2021.

SEE ALSO: New York State Police Continue Massive Crackdown

Soon after the trend went viral, both car manufacturers made anti-theft software upgrades available for owners. If an owner never received the upgrades, it's important that they contact their local dealer.

Police reminded all vehicle owners to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to the local police department.