Hyundai Introduces Optional £49 Security Upgrade for Ioniq 5 to Prevent Keyless Theft
Hyundai has introduced an optional security upgrade for its Ioniq 5 to combat keyless car theft. The upgrade is available for £49 (around Rs 5,768) and is designed to prevent thieves from using portable devices that can unlock and start cars without a key. “Customer contribution of £49” is required for the hardware and software enhancement, which Hyundai says will protect against evolving security threats.
These devices, which sometimes resemble a Game Boy, have previously been used to steal Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis EVs in the UK and elsewhere. They exploit wireless protocols used by Hyundai Motor Group to unlock models such as the Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Genesis GV60. In 2024, the Hyundai Ioniq and Kia EV6 ranked among the most stolen cars in the UK, highlighting the vulnerability of these vehicles.
How Keyless Theft Devices Work
Reports indicate that the hacking devices can intercept a car’s signal when a person touches the door handle. Then, they crack the security algorithm and send back a signal convincing the car it has a legitimate key. As a result, thieves can unlock and start the vehicle without performing a relay attack, making theft almost as simple as pressing a button.
Security researchers also found vulnerabilities in Kia’s web interface, which allowed hackers to unlock and start vehicles remotely. Hyundai Motor Group, the parent company of Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, has been notified of multiple security issues over the years. In 2023, Hyundai and Kia settled a $200 million lawsuit related to the ‘Kia Boyz’ attacks, which exploited a USB cord to bypass car security.
Paid Updates Address Growing Security Threats
In response to these ongoing threats, Hyundai is now offering the optional paid update to Ioniq 5 owners in the UK. The company emphasizes that the upgrade strengthens both hardware and software, enhancing protection against emerging hacking methods. Although Hyundai provides a five-year warranty on its vehicles, the new update requires a customer contribution, raising concerns about paying extra for vehicle safety.
