Modern chargers are connected computers. They talk to management platforms, process payments, receive software updates and control significant amounts of electrical power. That connectivity makes networks efficient and easy to manage, but it also makes cybersecurity part of running a charging business.
What could go wrong
- Payment and data theft: attackers targeting driver accounts, payment details or session data.
- Service disruption: chargers taken offline or prevented from authorising sessions.
- Tampering: unauthorised changes to pricing, configuration or firmware.
- Grid impact: many chargers switched on or off together could, in principle, affect local electricity networks.
Security in the protocols
OCPP, the protocol that links chargers to management systems, includes security measures in its newer versions and published security extensions. These support encrypted communication (TLS), authentication of chargers and servers using certificates, secure firmware updates and security event logging. Choosing chargers and platforms that implement them is the starting point.
Practical steps for operators
| Area | Good practice |
|---|---|
| Communications | Encrypt all traffic between chargers and the platform |
| Firmware | Accept only signed updates, and apply security patches promptly |
| Access | Unique credentials for each charger, no default passwords, and limited admin access |
| Physical security | Locked enclosures and tamper alerts on service ports |
| Payments | Use certified payment providers and never store card data on chargers |
| Monitoring | Log security events and alert on unusual behaviour |
Default passwords and unpatched firmware cause a large share of security incidents with connected devices. Basic hygiene prevents most problems.
People and processes
Security is not only technical. Limit who can change settings, review access when staff or contractors leave, train field technicians, and have a clear plan for responding to an incident. Ask hardware and software suppliers how they handle vulnerabilities and how quickly they release fixes.
Protecting driver data
Charging records reveal where and when people travel. Collect only what you need, protect it, and follow applicable data protection law, including India's digital personal data protection rules.
How PxT can help
PxT Energies builds networks on secure, open protocols, manages firmware updates and monitors chargers around the clock. We can review the security set-up of an existing network as part of a health check.