Friday, February 3, 2023

Car thefts turn off insurance firms

DES PLAINES, Ill. - Thefts of 2011-22 models of Kia and Hyundai automobiles have increased dramatically across America in 2022. Insurance industry associations say misuse of social media platforms, by criminals, are contributing to this spike. The National Insurance Crime Bureau, Coalition Against Insurance Fraud, and International Association of Special Investigation Units sent a joint letter to YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki requesting the platform remove its “how-to” videos that provide detailed instructions for stealing these automobiles. In Louisiana, State Farm Insurance confirmed it has stopped accepting new policies for these models. According to NOPD, more than 1,000 of the 4,000 cars stolen last year were Kia or Hyundais. Authorities nationwide warned these cars were being stolen by the use of a USB cord.  “Insurance fraud is the crime we all pay for," said Matthew Smith, Executive Director of the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud. Posting of these videos harms consumers by increasing thefts and driving up higher premiums. (WDSU 02/02/23) State Farm Louisiana Hyundai Kia car insurance (wdsu.com) National Insurance Crime Bureau 01/19/23) With Kia and Hyundai Thefts Spiking, Insurance Industry Associations Encourage YouTube To Remove 'How To' Videos | National Insurance Crime Bureau (nicb.org) 

In Memphis, auto thefts increased more than 100% during 2022. There were more than 9,600 auto thefts, primarily Hyundai, Kia and Infinity cars. Two insurance companies - State Farm and Progressive - will no longer write new policies for certain older models of Hyundai and Kias.(Commercial Appeal 12/22/23)

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