Government removes Chinese apps after e-rickshaw remote disabling incidents
Authorities have ordered the removal of Chinese battery management applications from app stores after reports emerged of e-rickshaws being remotely disabled through unsecured Bluetooth connections. The government is now pushing app stores to tighten security oversight.
Indian authorities have taken action to remove multiple smartphone applications from digital stores, including a Chinese app called BAT-BMS, following serious concerns about e-rickshaws being remotely shut down by malicious actors.
The applications in question were originally designed to manage battery systems in electric vehicles, but investigations revealed they were being misused to remotely disable e-rickshaws by exploiting vulnerable Bluetooth connections. This security flaw left vehicle owners and drivers exposed to disruptions, potentially affecting their livelihoods and passenger safety.
The government has instructed major app distribution platforms to delist these applications immediately. Additionally, authorities are pushing app stores to implement stricter review and monitoring processes to prevent similar dangerous software from becoming available to the public. The focus is on identifying applications with potential security vulnerabilities that could be weaponised against vehicle systems or critical infrastructure.
For India's rapidly growing e-rickshaw sector, which serves as a crucial last-mile transportation solution in cities and towns, this incident highlights a significant operational risk. E-rickshaw operators depend on their vehicles for daily income, and remote disabling attacks could strand them during shifts, disrupting services for commuters who rely on these affordable transport options. The threat also raises questions about cybersecurity standards for connected vehicle technologies in India.
The move reflects broader government concerns about Chinese applications and their data handling practices. While battery management apps are legitimate tools used by vehicle owners and operators, security researchers have repeatedly warned about inadequate encryption and authentication measures in some applications, creating opportunities for hackers to gain unauthorised access.
Stakeholders in the e-mobility industry are expected to review their technology partnerships and ensure all connected systems have robust cybersecurity measures. The government's intervention sends a clear signal that applications serving critical transportation infrastructure must meet stringent security standards before reaching consumers.
