Soft targets:  Testing standards to certify e-rickshaws do not include cybersecurity requirements. File photo for representational purposes only. | Photo Credit: The Hindu The Union government on Friday (July 3, 2026) issued orders to block battery management apps after some users discovered they were able to remotely use them to shut down e-rickshaw batteries even as those vehicles were transporting passengers, an official said. The apps, mostly developed by Chinese firms, appear to be designed for legitimate battery owners. The developers of three such apps —named by a Ministry official— Shenzhen Grenergy Technology, Shenzhen Ruichuang Lineng Technology, and Daly BMS, did not respond to queries from The Hindu.  It is unclear if banning the apps would completely eliminate the vulnerability, as these apps do not require internet access to hijack and shut off battery units without a configured password or PIN. Testing standards to certify e-rickshaws do not include cybersecurity requirements.  Lithium ion battery packs include battery management systems to monitor charge, voltage, temperature and cell health. Instagram reels demonstrating this vulnerability on roads went viral …