Security expert: Hyundai didn't tell me my car was so easy to steal

Maker faces legal action over claim that Ionig 5 was stolen in seconds using electronic device

- Jon Ungoed-Thomas

The motor manufacturer Hyundai faces legal action over allegations it failed to warn its customers that one of its most popular models of electric cars could be stolen "effortlessly in seconds". Elliott Ingram, an expert in digital security, was stunned when a CCTV camera installed at his home recorded a hooded thief stealing his Hyundai Ioniq 5 car in less than 20 seconds.

The thief is believed to have used a device, available online, to mimic the car's electronic key. It is the latest in a spate of thefts involving the vehicle. Ingram's car was later recovered by police, but he is terminating the lease and seeking compensation.

He says the South Korean car giant should have alerted customers to the security vulnerabilities.

"This security system has been blown open, so anyone can attack it," he said. "It's no longer fit for purpose." Hyundai promotes the convenience of its digital and smart keys, which allow motorists to lock or unlock the doors and start the engine while carrying just a key fob or digital key. The new technology includes several security measures but can be defeated by criminal gangs.