GoKawiilSouth Korea identifies 80 Tesla drivers using unauthorized FSD unlock devices
Seoul police say 80 Tesla drivers illegally activated Full Self-Driving using aftermarket devices that bypass regional software locks, confiscating 21 such units. The modules tap into the car's CAN bus, with some drivers importing devices from Europe or China and at least one building his own using GitHub instructions. Drivers face prosecution under the Motor Vehicle Management Act, carrying penalties up to two years in prison or a 20 million won ($15,000) fine.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The case highlights how Tesla's practice of installing identical hardware across all regions, regardless of local regulatory approval, creates an exploitable gap when software features haven't been certified locally. Efforts by some drivers to erase activation logs suggest an awareness that Tesla itself may be monitoring for unauthorized use, which could complicate enforcement and liability questions if an FSD-related incident occurs. The episode may prompt regulators elsewhere to scrutinize how automakers gate region-specific software features.
- South Korean police identified 80 drivers and seized 21 devices used to unlock Tesla's FSD feature illegally
- The devices exploit a CAN bus connection to bypass regional software locks, with some drivers building their own using online guides
- Offenders face up to two years in prison or fines around $15,000 under Korea's Motor Vehicle Management Act
Source: tomshardware.com — Newton Gitonga, 2026-10-30
Published there as: “South Korea clamps down on Tesla drivers for unlocking restricted full self-driving feature, $15,000 fines and prison possible sentences”
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