Government Probes BAT-BMS App for Hacking E-Rickshaws

The BAT-BMS app has come under government scrutiny after videos surfaced showing users remotely disabling e-rickshaws via Bluetooth. This misuse has led to significant disruptions for drivers, affecting their livelihoods. Cyber law expert Pavan Duggal stated that such actions constitute a legal offense under the Information Technology Act, with penalties including up to three years in prison and fines up to Rs 5 lakh. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has removed BAT-BMS and similar apps from app stores and is investigating their vulnerabilities. The app, developed by Shenzhen Grenergy Technology, was initially intended for battery management but has been exploited for malicious purposes. The situation has prompted public outcry, with calls for a ban on the app and increased scrutiny on connected devices.

Key Points: • BAT-BMS app misused to remotely disable e-rickshaws, affecting drivers' livelihoods. • Legal consequences for using the app include up to three years' imprisonment and fines. • Government has removed the app from major app stores and is investigating its security flaws.