Île-de-France Seeks Ban on App That Alerts Users to Transit Inspectors

Valérie Pécresse has announced legal action against Akha, an app accused of enabling fare evasion and undermining transit security.

The Akha app, often referred to as the 'Waze for fare evaders,' allows users to report and locate transit inspectors in real-time across public transportation networks.
Île-de-France Mobilités, led by Valérie Pécresse, has filed a legal complaint against the app, citing violations of French transport laws prohibiting the dissemination of inspector locations.
Akha has been removed from Google's Play Store but remains available on Apple's App Store, with its creator denying intent to facilitate illegal activities.
The app has been downloaded over 130,000 times and also allows users to report delays, safety concerns, and other transit issues, though inspector alerts dominate its use.
French law stipulates penalties of up to two months in prison and a €3,750 fine for signaling the presence of transit inspectors, but legal experts suggest a prolonged legal battle could follow.