How to Secure an eScooter App?

In recent times, eScooter apps have revolutionized how people commute, offering a convenient and eco-friendly transportation option. 

However, with this rapid growth comes the critical responsibility of ensuring user safety and data security. To secure an eScooter app in 2025 is about protecting sensitive user information, safeguarding riders from potential cyber threats, and physical risks. 

As the usage of eScooter continues to rise globally, addressing security vulnerabilities proactively will determine the platform’s success and user retention. 

Therefore, the question arises related to “ How to Secure an eScooter App?”

Well, to ensure eScooter app security, it's essential to follow prominent compliances such as GDPR, HIPPA, etc. Additionally, you need to follow steps consisting of a strong authentication system, encrypting data, monitoring and overcoming vulnerabilities, and many more. 

In this blog, we will dive into effective strategies and best practices on how to secure an eScooter app in 2025, helping developers create reliable and secure mobility solutions for the future. 

Key Takeaways:

• The global eScooter market is projected to be USD 48.90 billion in 2025 and expand up to USD 321.59 billion by 2034.

• Essential security features include multi-factor authentication, biometric logins, real-time alerts, end-to-end encryption, and GPS/geofencing.

• Top security threats in 2025 are data breaches, IoT device hijacking, payment fraud, API vulnerabilities, ransomware attacks, and insider threats.

• To secure the eScooter app, integrate strong authentication, IoT protection, API hardening, payment security, real-time monitoring, and audits.

• Compliance with GDPR, CCPA, OWASP, PCI-DSS, and data localization laws is mandatory for legal operation and building user trust.

• Partnering with JPLoft ensures your eScooter app is built with advanced security protocols, proactive monitoring, and compliance-verified design.

An Overview of the eScooter App Market

eScooter app trends have helped the market rapidly evolve into one of the fastest-growing segments of the shared mobility industry. With increasing urbanization, rising traffic congestion, and a global push for eco-friendly transport, eScooter apps have become a convenient solution for short-distance travel. Urban cities worldwide and their governments are encouraging these eco-friendly micromobility initiatives, which also directly boost the adoption of eScooter apps among citizens. 

Here are the current eScooter app statistics of the market of 2025 to understand its adoption better: 

• • The global eScooter market is estimated by Precedence Research to be USD 48.90 billion in 2025 and is forecasted to grow up to USD 321.59 billion by 2034 at a CAGR of 23.28%.
  • The eScooter rental app market was valued at USD 1.5 billion in 2024 and is projected to increase up to USD 7.2 billion by 2033 with a CAGR of 18.2%, according to TradePulseNetwork.
  • In a study by MarketUS, the pay-as-you-go segment dominated in 2024, holding more than 76.2% of the market share within the eScooter rental app sector. 
  • According to Market US, eScooter apps demonstrate a high user retention rate of 70%, indicating strong customer loyalty driven by reliable service and user-friendly interfaces.
  • As estimated by GlobeNewsWire, global shipments of eScooters are expected to reach 129 million units by 2028, driven by rising urbanization and eco-conscious consumers.

These figures highlight the robust growth and evolving technology adoption shaping the global eScooter sharing market in 2025. Companies that embrace innovation and prioritize security stand to gain the most in this competitive landscape. 

In the next section, we will understand why secure an online eScooter mobile app is critical and helps businesses protect users, maintain trust, and thrive in this competitive landscape.

Why Secure an eScooter App?

As eScooter sharing apps gain popularity in urban mobility, ensuring their security becomes crucial. These apps handle sensitive user data, financial transactions, and real-time location tracking, making them prime targets for cyber threats. Without strong security, both the business and its users are at significant risk. 

1. Protection of Personal and Financial Data

eScooter apps typically require users to share personal details such as names, phone numbers, addresses, and payment information. If left unprotected, this data can be exploited by hackers, leading to identity theft, fraud, or unauthorized financial transactions.

2. Ensuring User Safety and Trust

Security vulnerabilities in eScooter apps could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to ride controls, GPS systems, or unlocking mechanisms. A secure online eScooter mobile app helps in gaining long-term trust and loyalty from customers.

3. Safeguarding Business Reputation

A single security breach can severely damage the reputation and financial losses of an e-scooter company, resulting in negative press, social media backlash, and customer distrust. Security investments prevent brand damage and strengthen credibility in a competitive market.

4. Compliance with Regulations

Many regions enforce strict data protection regulations, such as GDPR, CCPA, or local transportation laws. Failure to implement proper security measures could lead to hefty fines, lawsuits, or even a suspension of business licenses.

5. Preventing Financial Loss

Cyberattacks can cause direct financial losses due to fraud, unauthorized transactions, or service downtime. Additionally, businesses may face indirect costs like legal fees, compensation claims, and recovery expenses. Securing the app helps avoid such costly disruptions.

6. Protecting Intellectual Property (IP)

Choosing eScooter app business models that rely on in-app payment, subscription, route optimization algorithms, IoT-enabled locks, and fleet management systems. Hackers could attempt to steal or reverse-engineer these innovations. Strong security preserves the company’s competitive advantage.

7. Preventing Service Disruption

An insecure app is vulnerable to Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks or malicious activities that can disrupt ride bookings, payments, or fleet tracking. Robust security ensures smooth service availability and customer satisfaction.

Securing an eScooter app has become a technical necessity while creating an eScooter app. It is integral to user trust, platform growth, and service reliability in fast-moving urban environments. Now let’s explore the essential security features that ensure protection, trust, and seamless operations.

eScooter App Security Features

The most important security features include secure authentication, data encryption, access control, GPS/geofencing, and regular security maintenance. Below, we have listed the essential eScooter app security features you should implement in your app: 

► Secure Authentication and User Access

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Requires a password and a one-time code sent to the user’s device, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

• Biometric authentication: Options like fingerprint or facial recognition improve both security and convenience.

► Data Protection Measures 

• End-to-end encryption: All personal, payment, and ride data should be encrypted in storage and in transit, protecting against data breaches.

• Secure payment processing: PCI DSS-compliant payment gateways and encryption keep financial data safe.

► Device and Location Security

• GPS tracking: Monitors scooter location to help prevent theft and ensure proper usage.

• Geofencing: Sets virtual boundaries to restrict usage in sensitive or unsafe areas and enforce responsible riding behavior.

• Smart locking mechanisms: Only authorized users (via QR code, app, or biometrics) can unlock or operate scooters, which helps prevent theft and misuse.

► User Account and Privacy Controls

• Role-based access control (RBAC): Restricts permissions by user type, ensuring only the right users access sensitive app functions.

• Data minimization and consent: Collects only necessary data and requires explicit user permission for data usage, boosting privacy compliance.

► Operational Security and Maintenance

• Regular security updates: Frequent patching of security vulnerabilities and app components with the assistance of a mobile app maintenance services provider.

• Audit logs and event monitoring: Tracks access and activity for accountability and forensic analysis in case of incidents.

► Emergency and Response Features

• Real-time alerts and notifications: Informs users instantly of any suspicious or critical activity during rides.

• Emergency contact and incident reporting: Let users quickly reach support or emergency services if safety or security issues arise.

Implementing these security features in your eScooter app idea fosters trust, protects user data, sustains operational integrity, and ensures compliance in increasingly competitive and regulated markets. 

While integrating strong security features by hiring an experienced on-demand app development company lays the foundation for a reliable eScooter app, it’s equally important to understand the evolving risks to take measures accordingly. Let’s now explore the top security threats to avoid in 2025 to stay ahead of attackers.

Top eScooter App Security Threats to Avoid in 2025

As eScooter apps continue to evolve with smarter IoT integration, AI-powered fleet management, and digital payment systems, cybercriminals are also finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities. To ensure uninterrupted service and user trust, businesses must proactively address these top security threats in 2025: 

eScooter app security in 2025 means staying ahead of hackers, protecting user data, and ensuring safe rides by addressing these threats proactively. Staying vigilant against these critical app and hardware threats is essential for a safe, trusted eScooter sharing app. Next, we will break down the key steps to secure an e-scooter app you can take against these risks.

Steps to Secure an e-Scooter App

With the technological revolution comes an array of security and eScooter app development challenges. Since this app is an integration of IoT devices, GPS tracking, payment systems, personal data, and fleet management features, it makes the eScooter app ideal for cyber attacks.

Below is the eScooter app security guide that explores the most crucial measures to safeguard your app in 2025 and beyond: 

Step 1. Implement Strong User Authentication

Create an app strong authentication framework that ensures that only legitimate users can access accounts, reducing risks like identity theft and unauthorized access.

• Must have multi-factor authentication (MFA) to verify customer identity using SMS codes, email links, or app-based authenticators.

• Fingerprint and facial recognition make account breaches harder for attackers.

• Enforce automatic logout on inactive sessions to prevent unauthorized use.

Step 2. Encrypt Sensitive Data

eScooter apps deal with various personal information about a rider and the business. By encrypting both user and fleet data, companies minimize the chances of large-scale breaches.

• Use end-to-end encryption to protect communications between users, scooters, and servers.

• Use AES-256 encryption for the encryption of data at rest (databases and cloud storage).

• Ensure that all data in transit is secured against eavesdropping with layered security.

Step 3. Secure IoT Devices and Firmware

A hacker who compromises scooter firmware could unlock, disable, or even take control of vehicles remotely. IoT security is essential to keep riders safe and prevent scooter theft.

• Roll out regular patches to fix firmware vulnerabilities immediately.

• Require secure handshake protocols between scooters and the central server for IoT authentication.

• Encrypted commands and GPS data are exchanged between the app and the scooter.

Step 4. Harden API Security 

APIs can expose sensitive data while building an AI app and allow attackers to manipulate rides or payments. With proper API hardening, e-scooter apps can avoid data leaks like those seen in past Bird scooter breaches.

• Token-Based Authentication (OAuth 2.0) to prevent unauthorized API calls.

• Stop brute-force attacks by limiting the number of requests per user.

• Prevent injection attacks by sanitizing all API inputs

• Conduct regular mobile app testing to identify vulnerabilities early.

Step 5. Strengthen Payment Security 

A single weakness in the payment system could result in fraud, chargebacks, and reputational loss. By ensuring its security, companies protect both themselves and their customers from financial risks.

• Ensure payment processing meets industry standards like PCI-DSS compliance.

• Replace sensitive card details with unique tokens.

• Secure an eScooter app via AI monitoring to flag unusual transactions.

• If offering in-app wallets, encrypt them and enforce strict login security.

Step 6. Protect Location and Ride Data

While useful for fleet management and user convenience, it also introduces privacy risks. By safeguarding geolocation data, e-scooter providers protect users from stalking, theft, and surveillance threats.

• Collect only the necessary location data.

• Limit location data access to authorized staff only.

• Remove identifying details from ride histories to protect user privacy.

• Ensure attackers cannot manipulate routes or bypass restricted areas.

Step 7. Monitor and Detect Threats Proactively

Mobile app security also requires real-time monitoring to catch unusual behavior before it escalates. Proactive monitoring reduces downtime, minimizes losses, and ensures faster recovery.

• Detects anomalies such as repeated failed logins, scooter misuse, or unusual ride patterns.

• Aggregate logs and detect threats across systems using Security Information and Event Management (SIEM).

• Have a clear protocol for handling breaches quickly.

Step 8. Enforce Role-Based Access Controls (RBAC)

RBAC prevents misuse of access to admin dashboards and also helps companies comply with regulations, avoiding any type of insider threats.

• Ensure users can only access data necessary for their job.

• Log all employee actions for accountability.

• Grant minimum access required to perform tasks.

Step 9. Ensure Regulatory Compliance

Different regions have different rules governing mobility services and data protection. Compliance is not just a legal requirement but also a trust-building factor for users.

• Follow GDPR (Europe) and CCPA (California) for data privacy.

• Ensure compliance with local transportation laws in each operating city.

• Keep regular compliance audits updated with evolving 2025 regulations.

Step 10. Conduct Regular Security Audits and Penetration Testing

Hire dedicated developers to conduct regular testing to identify cyberattack gaps before hackers do. Proactive auditing ensures long-term security and resilience, even though most secure apps are not completely secure.

• Hire third-party cybersecurity experts for unbiased assessments.

• Simulate real-world attacks to evaluate defenses.

• Integrate automated regular vulnerability scans into the development pipeline.

Step 11. Adopt Secure DevOps (DevSecOps) Practices

Security must be implemented by the mobile app development company during the development process of the app. DevSecOps ensures security is maintained across the app’s lifecycle.

• Secure CI/CD pipelines and integrate automated security checks at every stage.

• Enforce peer reviews and static code analysis tools.

• Release frequent patches and upgrades to stay ahead of evolving threats.

Step 12. Educate Users and Employees on Cybersecurity

By educating both users and employees, e-scooter providers can greatly reduce risks. A security-conscious ecosystem is much harder to exploit.

• Teach riders about strong passwords, safe app usage, and recognizing phishing attempts.

• Train staff on security protocols, data handling, and insider threat prevention.

• Conduct mock phishing or breach response exercises.

The process to secure an eScooter app in 2025 requires a multi-layered, proactive approach. Each of these steps strengthens the ecosystem against growing cyber threats. In the highly competitive eScooter market, companies that prioritize security will stand out as reliable, responsible, and future-ready mobility providers. 

Aligning these security measures with global and regional compliance standards ensures both legal operation and user trust. This makes regulatory adherence the natural next step.

Compliance and Regulations to Follow in eScooter App Security

The main compliance and regulations eScooter apps must follow in 2025 include privacy laws (like GDPR and CCPA), mobile app security standards (notably from OWASP), and emerging location-specific legislation for micromobility and device safety. 

1. GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)

GDPR mandates explicit consent, data minimization, breach notification within 72 hours, and data subject rights. It requires encryption and privacy by design for EU data, ensuring user privacy and strict control over personal information in eScooter apps.

2. CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act)

CCPA requires transparency in data collection and user control over personal data for California users. It mandates secure data handling and rights to opt out of data sale, enhancing privacy protections for eScooter app customers in California markets.

3. HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)

HIPAA protects health and biometric data privacy where applicable, requiring encryption, access control, and audit trails. eScooter apps handling sensitive health-related data must comply to maintain confidentiality and protect users from unauthorized data exposure.

4. OWASP Mobile Application Security Standards

OWASP Standards guide secure coding, authentication, data protection, and API security to prevent common mobile app design vulnerabilities. Applying OWASP’s Mobile Top 10 and MASVS reduces security risks and secure an eScooter sharing app against attacks.

5. PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard)

PCI DSS ensures secure payment processing using compliant gateways and strong encryption. eScooter apps with integrated payment systems must adhere to PCI DSS standards to protect users’ financial information and prevent fraud.

6. Data Localization and Cross-border Data Transfer Regulations

Data localization laws require storing and processing sensitive user data within jurisdictional borders or under strict controls. eScooter apps must comply with local/international cross-border data transfer rules to operate legally in regulated local/international markets.

7. Security by Design and Zero Trust Principles

Security by Design enforces embedding security from the eScooter app design phase, including continuous authentication and encryption. The Zero Trust Principle continuously verifies every access request based on identity, context, and policy before granting access to resources.

8. Incident Reporting and Breach Notification Laws

Incident reporting laws mandate timely breach disclosures to users and authorities, minimizing harm. eScooter apps must have processes for rapid notification after security incidents to comply with legal requirements and maintain user trust.

Meeting these standards and regulations is essential for both protecting user rights/data and ensuring legal operation across target markets. Hire the top mobile app development companies in the USA that implements these compliances seamlessly. Let’s explore some real-world incidents that highlight the consequences of overlooking these standards and demonstrate why robust security measures are non-negotiable.

Real-World Cases for e-Scooter App Security

Several real-world cases have highlighted how vulnerabilities in eScooter app security, IoT devices, and infrastructure can be exploited by attackers. These incidents emphasize the importance of prioritizing security measures that even the best eScooter apps have missed out on.

1] Lime Scooter Breach, Multiple Cities

Year: 2019

Incident: Lime eScooter app development faced security issues when a software glitch resulted in a scooter halt in mid-ride. Although not a direct hack, the incident revealed how software vulnerabilities in IoT-connected scooters could endanger rider safety and damage brand trust.

Lesson Learned: Regular firmware testing, safety audits, and rapid patch management are crucial to prevent accidents and protect riders.

2] Bird Scooter API Vulnerability, USA

Year: 2019

Incident: Security researchers discovered a flaw in Bird’s public API that exposed sensitive user data, including names, phone numbers, and trip routes. The vulnerability could have been exploited for stalking or identity theft. 

Lesson Learned: API security must include strict authentication, rate limiting, and regular penetration testing to prevent data leaks. Thus, when you step to create an app like Bird, it's essential to evaluate the security vulnerability, and promote regular testing.

3] Cric Scooter Hacking, Europe

Year: 2020

Incident: Hackers bypassed Circ scooter’s locking mechanisms through unauthorized app manipulation. By exploiting weak authentication, attackers unlocked scooters for free rides. This case highlighted the risk of poor IoT-device integration with mobile apps.

Lesson Learned: Strong encryption, secure authentication, and fraud monitoring are essential to prevent unauthorized scooter use.

4] Bolt Mobility App Data Leak, USA

Year: 2021

Incident: Researchers found that Bolt Mobility’s app exposed unprotected cloud storage, revealing personal rider information such as driver’s licenses and payment details. This case demonstrated the dangers of weak cloud security practices.

Lesson Learned: Enforcing cloud security best practices like encryption, access controls, and routine audits can prevent large-scale data breaches.

5] Hive and Tier Scooter Exploits, Germany & Austria

Year: 2020 & 2021

Incident: Hackers demonstrated how they could remotely unlock or disable scooters from Hive and Tier through firmware manipulation. This raised concerns about IoT hijacking and user safety in Europe’s growing micromobility sector.

Lesson Learned: Securing IoT devices with encrypted communication, regular firmware updates, and intrusion detection systems is critical for rider safety.

These cases show that weak APIs, poor cloud setups, insecure firmware, and inadequate testing can all lead to costly and dangerous outcomes. eScooter providers must treat how to secure a eScooter app as an important and continuous process for app development, not just a one-time investment. 

By applying these insights from past cases, businesses should adopt best practices to secure e-scooter apps in 2025 and safeguard users, fleets, and data.

Best Practices to Secure an eScooter App in 2025

The rising popularity of eScooter-sharing platforms has made them critically vulnerable to cyber fraud. To protect users, fleets, and business operations, eScooter app developers and operators must adopt robust process to secure an eScooter app from the evolving threat landscape. 

Below, we have listed the best practices to adopt from the eScooter app security guide for securing your app: 

By following these best security practices, eScooter app providers in 2025 can ensure secure, reliable, and trustworthy services. This helps build user confidence while protecting their business from costly cyber threats.

Partner with JPLoft and Secure Your App

Partnering with JPLoft to secure your eScooter app ensures your platform leverages advanced security protocols and cutting-edge technology designed specifically for the unique challenges. 

JPLoft, an eScooter app development company, combines deep industry expertise with the latest encryption, multi-factor authentication, and real-time threat monitoring to protect your users' sensitive data and financial transactions.

Our team prioritizes scalable backend architectures using trusted cloud platforms and secure APIs to keep your app resilient against evolving cyber threats while maintaining performance. Beyond technical safeguards, JPLoft supports ongoing security audits, penetration testing, and timely patch management to avoid vulnerabilities.

Safeguard your investment now, ensure compliance, and foster customer confidence by choosing JPLoft as your trusted mobile app security partner in 2025 and beyond.

Conclusion

eScooter app security has become a business necessity in 2025’s rapidly evolving mobility landscape. Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, and even minor vulnerabilities can lead to major financial, operational, and reputational damage. 

By implementing strong authentication, encrypting sensitive data, safeguarding IoT devices, and ensuring compliance with global and local regulations, companies can protect both users and their fleets. Proactive monitoring, secure DevOps practices, and employee-user education further create a resilient defense against evolving threats. 

In essence, a secure eScooter app is about building trust, ensuring safety, and guaranteeing uninterrupted service. Businesses that invest in robust security today will position themselves as leaders in the competitive and fast-growing e-scooter market of the future.