Centre orders blocking of battery management apps used to turn off e-rickshaws
The Indian government has ordered the blocking of battery management apps after reports of criminals using them to remotely disable e-rickshaws for extortion. The vulnerability stems from a lack of cybersecurity standards in the hardware.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the security risks associated with the rapid adoption of IoT-enabled transport and the need for stricter cybersecurity regulations for critical infrastructure.
The Union government on Friday (July 3, 2026) issued orders to block battery management apps after some users discovered they were able to remotely use them to shut down e-rickshaw batteries even as those vehicles were transporting passengers, an official said.
Factual reporting on government policy and criminal activity related to technology vulnerabilities.
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