08/07/2026
Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Warns Residents of Increase in Vehicle Thefts and Break-Ins
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Warns Residents of Increase in Vehicle Thefts and Break-Ins
Salisbury, MD – August 7, 2026 – The Wicomico County Sheriff's Office is notifying residents of an increase in motor vehicle thefts, attempted motor vehicle thefts, and thefts from motor vehicles throughout Wicomico County.
Detectives have identified Kia and Hyundai vehicles as a particular target in recent motor vehicle thefts and attempted thefts. Owners of affected Kia and Hyundai models are encouraged to take additional precautions to protect their vehicles from becoming targets.
Protect Your Vehicle
The Wicomico County Sheriff's Office recommends that residents:
• Lock your vehicle every time, even when parked at home or for a short period of time.
• Never leave the keys or key fob inside the vehicle.
• Remove valuables, fi****ms, electronic devices, wallets, and other property from the vehicle or keep them out of sight.
• Park in well-lit, populated areas whenever possible.
• When parking at home, utilize a garage or secured area when available.
• Consider installing a steering-wheel lock or other visible anti-theft device, particularly for Kia and Hyundai models susceptible to theft.
• Consider installing a vehicle GPS tracking device or utilizing the manufacturer's vehicle-tracking technology when available.
• Keep your vehicle's doors, windows, and sunroof completely closed and secured.
• Do not leave the vehicle running unattended.
• Report suspicious persons or activity around parked vehicles to law enforcement.
• Photograph and record your vehicle's VIN, license plate, make, model, color, and identifying features and keep that information in a secure location.
• Do not leave the vehicle title or other important documents inside the vehicle.
Kia and Hyundai Anti-Theft Updates
Certain older Kia and Hyundai models manufactured without an engine immobilizer have been specifically targeted in vehicle thefts. In response, both manufacturers have provided free anti-theft software upgrades for eligible vehicles.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that Hyundai and Kia developed anti-theft software designed to prevent the theft method targeting certain vehicles without immobilizers. The software modifies the vehicle's theft-alarm and ignition systems to require the proper key to start the vehicle.
Hyundai: Certain 2011–2022 Hyundai vehicles that are not equipped with an engine immobilizer may qualify for the free Anti-Theft Software Upgrade. Hyundai also offers an anti-theft ignition-cylinder protector for certain eligible vehicles. Owners can determine eligibility by entering their VIN through Hyundai's anti-theft program.
Kia: Kia has also provided free anti-theft software updates for eligible vehicles affected by the theft trend.
Owners should contact an authorized Kia dealer and provide their VIN to determine whether their vehicle qualifies for an anti-theft update or other applicable protection.
It is important to note that eligibility varies by year, make, model, trim level, and VIN. Not every Kia or Hyundai vehicle is affected.
Vehicle owners can also check for any outstanding safety recalls by using the NHTSA recall lookup tool, which allows owners to search by VIN or license plate.
If Your Vehicle Is Targeted
If you discover that someone has attempted to steal or break into your vehicle:
1.Do not touch or disturb the vehicle unnecessarily. There may be evidence that detectives can recover.
2. Contact law enforcement and report the incident.
3. If your vehicle is stolen, provide law enforcement with the vehicle's VIN, registration information, license plate number, and any available tracking information.
4. Notify your insurance company.
5. If your vehicle is equipped with a manufacturer tracking system or GPS device, provide the location information to law enforcement rather than attempting to recover the vehicle yourself.
Residents are reminded that leaving a vehicle unlocked or valuables in plain view can increase the likelihood of becoming a victim, regardless of the vehicle's make or model.
The Wicomico County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate these incidents and encourages residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
Anyone with information regarding vehicle thefts, attempted thefts, or individuals involved in these offenses is encouraged to contact the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office at 410-548-4891 or provide anonymous information through Crime Solvers of the Lower Eastern Shore.
The Sheriff's Office appreciates the assistance and cooperation of the residents of Wicomico County in helping prevent and solve these crimes.
For additional information regarding vehicle recalls and manufacturer anti-theft programs, vehicle owners should consult the manufacturer using their vehicle's VIN and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's recall database.
Releasing Authority: Criminal Investigation Division
Date: 08/07/2026
