CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — The Champaign Police Department is offering free steering wheel locks to help prevent vehicle thefts linked to a nationwide social media trend.

The locks are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the department’s front desk at 82 E. University Ave. Officials say the program has been expanded and is now open to any Kia or Hyundai owner, regardless of where they live.

To qualify, drivers must provide proof of ownership for eligible vehicles. Those include Kia models manufactured between 2011 and 2021 and Hyundai models manufactured between 2013 and 2021.

Police say the initiative is part of an ongoing effort to reduce thefts and encourage drivers to take additional precautions to protect their vehicles.