India removes apps enabling remote e-rickshaw shutdowns

Indian authorities have taken swift action to address a security concern in the country's e-rickshaw industry. Two Chinese-developed smartphone apps, 'BAT-BMS' and 'Epoch Li-ion', were removed from app stores after reports emerged of people using them to remotely shut down e-rickshaws. The apps targeted e-rickshaws with Bluetooth-enabled lithium battery packs, which lack safety features.

The move comes after videos of people using these apps to stall e-rickshaws on busy streets in India went viral. While the Indian government has taken action, the impact on the e-rickshaw industry and user safety remains to be seen. The e-rickshaw industry is a popular mode of transportation in India, with many drivers relying on the vehicles for their livelihood.

The security gap in the budget vehicles was identified as a lack of safety features in the Bluetooth-enabled battery management units. Only e-rickshaws with unsecured battery management systems were vulnerable to the app-based shutdowns. The Indian government has yet to comment on the potential consequences of the apps' removal or the long-term impact on the e-rickshaw industry.