An alleged case of fraud involving the hacking of e-rickshaws has emerged in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. Authorities have detained an 18-year-old suspect, accused of targeting e-rickshaw drivers by impersonating a technical expert. The suspect reportedly charged drivers to restart their vehicles after disabling them remotely using a mobile application.

According to police reports, the accused and his alleged accomplices used a mobile app and other technical methods to disable e-rickshaws, particularly during late-night hours in remote areas. Once the vehicles ceased functioning, they purportedly approached the stranded drivers, stating they could assist in restarting the e-rickshaws and collected service fees ranging from Rs 200 to Rs 300, with some instances exceeding this amount.

Police Detainees and Ongoing Investigations

The incidents prompted concern within the police department after multiple complaints were filed by e-rickshaw drivers and the Unorganised E-rickshaw Drivers and Operators Association. The complaints highlighted a pattern of deception and exploitation of drivers through the accused’s actions.

Investigations commenced under the direction of Additional Superintendent of Police Alok Sharma. A joint team from the Crime Branch and local police was formed to analyse complaints. During the investigation, Ritesh Bhanupa was detained on suspicion of his involvement. Authorities are currently interrogating him to uncover more details and will pursue further legal actions based on findings that emerge.

Additional SP Alok Sharma mentioned that a technical evaluation is underway to verify claims that the e-rickshaw systems had been compromised via a mobile application. Investigators are meticulously examining CCTV footage, as well as other technical evidence, to piece together the broader network, if it exists.

Technical Vulnerability in E-Rickshaw Systems

The investigation has revealed that the vulnerability lies within the Bluetooth-enabled Battery Management System (BMS) of e-rickshaws in India, which reportedly allows unauthorised users to disable vehicles remotely. This flaw has resulted in financial losses and confusion for many drivers.

Reports indicate that the issue originated from inadequate password protection in the BAT-BMS app developed by Shenzhen Grenergy Technology. Many drivers were not informed about the BMS features or the necessary passwords by dealers when purchasing the vehicles. Consequently, this lack of awareness has left them susceptible to fraudulent activities.

The situation, which circulated widely as a form of online amusement, has since been addressed with new measures requiring password authentication. This incident underlines the serious implications of technological flaws on vulnerable workers in the transportation sector.

Authorities in Ujjain have issued warnings to e-rickshaw drivers, advising them to stay vigilant. In cases where an e-rickshaw suddenly malfunctions, drivers are advised not to provide cash or initiate transfers to unknown parties claiming to be of assistance. Instead, they are urged to contact authorised service centres or company technicians.

Additionally, police encourage drivers to document any suspicious interactions by capturing photographs or videos and noting the registration numbers of any vehicles involved. They have set up a hotline for immediate reporting of incidents, available through Dial 100112, the Cyber Helpline 1930, or through the nearest police station.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share