The increasing use of Electric Vehicles (EVs) has led to a corresponding rise in the number of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) across India. However, just like any other technological application, EVCS are susceptible to cyber-attacks and cyber security incidents.
CERT-In Alert and Vulnerability Notes
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) is mandated to track and monitor cyber security incidents in India. It has received reports of vulnerabilities in products and applications related to EVCS. To combat the issue of hacking, CERT-In has issued alerts and vulnerability notes suggesting remedial measures. CERT-In issues alerts and advisories regarding latest cyber threats/vulnerabilities and countermeasures to protect computers and networks on an ongoing basis.
Mandatory Reporting of Cyber Security Incidents
The government is aware of various cyber security threats and is actively taking steps to combat them. In the recently notified cyber security direction, CERT-In has made it mandatory for all incidents to be reported to them. CERT-In has formulated a Cyber Crisis Management Plan for countering cyber-attacks and cyber terrorism, which all Ministries and Departments of the Central Government, State Governments and their organizations, and critical sectors must implement.
Empanelment of Security Auditing Organizations
CERT-In has empanelled 150 security auditing organizations to support and audit the implementation of Information Security Best Practices. These practices aim to ensure the safety and security of EVCS and other technological applications.
Number of Cyber Security Incidents
According to the information reported to and tracked by CERT-In, the number of cyber security incidents has been on the rise over the years. In 2018, there were 2,08,456 incidents reported. This number rose to 3,94,499 in 2019, 11,58,208 in 2020, 14,02,809 in 2021, and 13,91,457 in 2022.
Written Reply by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, gave this information in a written reply in the Lok Sabha. The government is fully cognizant and aware of various cyber security threats and is taking measures to protect EVCS and other technological applications against cyber-attacks and cyber security incidents.
