Uber's 'free rides' bug amended by security researcher
What's the story
Bengaluru-based security researcher Anand Prakash killed a bug in Uber's app that could be misused by unethical hackers by facilitating free rides. Anand was given a reward of $5,000 for exposing the security loophole. The bug allowed adding an invalid payment method, helping one ride for free. Tap in to know more about what's making news in Bengaluru!
Water Crisis
State Government warns residents of imminent water crisis
Depleting water levels in Karnataka's reservoirs has forced the state government to caution the residents to be prepared for water supply once in three days if the Cauvery river basin doesn't receive rain by May-end. Under these circumstances, several MLAs have started seeking sanctions from Development Minister KJ George and the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB).
Tourism
Karnataka requests Australia to initiate direct flights from Bengaluru
The government of Karnataka has requested the Australian government to commence direct flights from Bengaluru to Australia. Information Technology and Tourism minister Priyank Kharge put forward this request to the Australian Consul General for India, Sean Kelly. According to a report by an air-travel intelligence company (OAG), the top 3 unserved air routes from Bengaluru are JFK in New York, Sydney and Melbourne.
Crime
10-year-old sacrificed in Magadi
A 10-year-old girl, allegedly "sacrificed" by her own relatives "to cure her own uncle" was found murdered near Hosahalli. Police arrested four people including the paternal uncle of the dead girl. An alleged practitioner of black magic, Naseem Taj, advised the uncle (Mohammed Wasil) that his brother could be cured of a paralytic stroke if a minor girl was sacrificed within 40 days.
Public Transport
Transport department to decide minimum cab fares
The transport department is going to hold a meeting today to decide minimum fares for taxis in order to prevent cab-aggregators from charging low, promotional tariffs. According to a source, the department might introduce Rs.10 and Rs.12 per kilometre as minimum fares for non-AC and AC cabs respectively. The maximum fare caps for non-AC and AC cabs are Rs.14.5 and Rs.19.5 per kilometre respectively.
Mangaluru
Quality of air in Mangaluru is deteriorating: Report
According to an independent air quality investigation, there exist high levels of lead in Mangaluru's air, which is already on the brink of danger on 5 other parameters. In a few locations, PM2.5 and PM10 (along with lead) has exceeded permissible levels. PM particles are responsible for causing serious health effects of the heart and the lungs.