This system vulnerability was quickly exploited by malicious networks. A technique called ” flight with a stroller », widely distributed on social networks; on TikTok especially ; allows you to bypass the security device by simply manipulating the cables connecting the box to the vehicle. Then all you had to do was push it to start.
Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time a Chinese platform has been used as a guide to car theft, mind you “Kia Challenge” from last year. Augustine, who leased around fifty cars for three years, explains: “ We have been victims of many thefts, cars subsequently damaged or found in other countries due to defective boxes. “.
In the face of this abuse, some owners have called on bailiffs to document the flaws in the system. An observation for José, a former owner of about twenty vehicles, emphasizes “ anomaly » enable this type of theft. The platform tries to minimize the extent of the phenomenon by stating that only 0.08% of vehicles are affected by theft. Still, he acknowledges that “ the box itself is not an anti-theft system » and started replacing them with “ further secure these boxes “.
In the United States, class action lawsuits filed in 2020 and 2021 forced Getaround to compensate owners who were victims of theft. In France, several owners are now taking legal action in the hope of forcing the platform to fundamentally review its vehicle security system and compensation procedures.
Emphasizing the collaborative economy is very good; its enforcement by prioritizing rapid growth over security is much more debatable. Even more disturbing is the fact that Getaround tries to minimize the problem at all costs and delays providing concrete solutions. Behavior that could cost him dearly, as the injured owners organize to get compensation in court.
source: Radio France