Centre orders blocking of battery management apps used to turn off e-rickshaws

The Union government has ordered the blocking of certain battery management apps, primarily developed by Chinese firms, after they were found to be exploited to remotely shut down e-rickshaw batteries, even while transporting passengers. This vulnerability, which does not require internet access, has led to incidents of extortion and public safety concerns. The article highlights the lack of cybersecurity requirements in e-rickshaw testing standards and mentions that such acts are punishable under IPC/BNS sections for criminal mischief.