The car manufacturers Hyundai and Kia announced a million-dollar settlement to settle a lawsuit filed by auto theft victims after a challenge dubbed the “Kia Challenge” on TikTok showed how easy it is to steal some models.

This deal could cost these South Korean car companies up to $200 million.most of which would be to compensate people for theft-related losses, the companies said.

“This settlement is the latest in a series of important actions Kia has taken to help customers whose vehicles have been attacked by criminals who using theft methods popular on social networksKia America chief legal officer John Yoon said in a joint statement.

Theft of Kia and Hyundai cars in the United States skyrocketed in the middle of last year after videos were shared on TikTok showing how to easily steal some models, the companies said.

These challenge-related robberies resulted in at least 14 accidents and eight deaths.according to NHTSA, the US road safety agency.

TikTok did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the company. AFP.

The companies estimate that about 9 million Hyundai and Kia vehicles currently on the road in the United States are “or were susceptible to these thefts promoted by social networks.”

“We appreciate the opportunity to provide additional support to our owners affected by the increasing and ongoing criminal activity targeting our vehicles.said Jason Erb, legal director of Hyundai North America.

Erb added that Hyundai will continue to update its cars’ software, distribute steering wheel locks and help owners who are having trouble getting insurance because of the risk of theft.

Kia is taking similar steps, Yoon said.

According to NHTSA, Hyundai and Kia updated anti-theft software and delivered tens of thousands of steering wheel locks to car owners in US states.