Nitte University alumnus Sumanth Kamath earns global recognition for ethical cybersecurity research

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Jul 28, 2026: Nitte University proudly congratulates Sumanth Kamath, an alumnus of Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (NMIT), Bengaluru, for earning international recognition for his responsible cybersecurity research. His work was recently featured by Boston University after he uncovered a critical vulnerability in Boston’s public transit payment system.

Sumanth, who graduated from NMIT’s Bachelor of Engineering program in Information Science and Engineering (2020–2024), is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Data Science at Boston University. Along with fellow researcher Damodhar Pai, he identified a design flaw in the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) tap-to-pay fare collection system that could potentially allow passengers to access transit services even when payment authorization failed.

Instead of exploiting the vulnerability, the researchers adhered to the principles of ethical cybersecurity by responsibly disclosing their findings to the MBTA. Boston University recognized their work as an example of research that strengthens public infrastructure and enhances digital security.

The study highlights a complex issue within modern contactless payment systems, where rapid transaction processing and tokenized digital wallets can occasionally create gaps in payment verification. Sumanth’s research offers valuable recommendations for improving coordination among transit agencies, payment networks, technology providers and financial institutions to address such vulnerabilities.

Reflecting on the discovery, Sumanth said that public transit systems rely heavily on fare revenue and that responsible disclosure allows organizations to fix security flaws before they can be exploited. His approach reflects the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and public service in cybersecurity research.

The Nitte University community takes immense pride in Sumanth’s outstanding achievement. His journey from the classrooms of NMIT to contributing to the security of critical digital infrastructure in the United States is an inspiration to aspiring engineers, researchers and innovators.

Nitte University extends its heartfelt congratulations to Sumanth and wishes him continued success as he advances the fields of data science, cybersecurity and responsible technological innovation.

Watch Sumanth’s NBC Boston interview:
https://www.nbcboston.com/video/on-air/as-seen-on/mbta-tap-to-pay-vulnerability-exposed/3963998/