Latest news with #Line
India Today
17 hours ago
- Politics
- India Today
Pakistan rebuilding terror camps, launchpads destroyed in Op Sindoor: Sources
Pakistan is actively working to re-establish terrorist launchpads and training camps that were destroyed by the Indian Army during Operation Sindoor in May, launched in response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack, according to intelligence Pakistani Army, its intelligence agency ISI, and the government are reportedly providing substantial funding and full support to rebuild these terrorist infrastructures, particularly in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and adjacent areas, sources May 7, Indian forces carried out precision strikes on nine terror camps across Pakistan and PoK, targeting infrastructure linked to three major terror outfits: Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Hizbul Mujahideen. One of the most significant targets was the JeM headquarters in Bahawalpur, considered the nerve centre of JeM LAUNCHPADS AND CAMPS Intelligence agencies indicate that Pakistani terror organisations, in collaboration with ISI, are attempting to construct high-tech, smaller terror camps in dense forests near the Line of Control (LoC). This strategy is aimed at evading surveillance and airstrikes, according to sources who spoke to India camps currently being rebuilt are located in areas such as Luni, Putwal, Taipu Post, Jamila Post, Umranwali, Chaprar, Forward Kahuta, Chota Chak, and Janglora. These camps are reportedly being equipped with advanced technologies designed to counter thermal imagers, foliage-penetrating radar, and satellite further reveal that the Pakistani Army and ISI are also redeveloping 13 launching pads in PoK, including areas such as Kel, Shardi, Dudhniyal, Athmuqam, Jura, Leepa Valley, Pachiban Chaman, Tandpani, Naiyali, Jankot, Chakoti, Nikail, and Forward addition, four terror launchpads on the International Border, dismantled during Operation Sindoor, are also being reactivated. These include regular Pakistan Rangers ISI TACTICS ON INTERNATIONAL BORDERThe ISI is reportedly redeveloping four launchpads along the international border in the Jammu sector: Masrur Bada Bhai, Chaprar, Luni, and a drone centre in Pakistani spy agency is adopting a new strategy of splitting larger camps into smaller ones to reduce the concentration of terrorists in a single location, thereby minimising potential damage in case of a mini-camp is expected to have its own perimeter security, monitored by specially trained Pakistani Army personnel. These guards will be equipped with thermal sensors, low-frequency radar systems, and anti-drone technologies, sources MEETINGSIndian intelligence agencies have also intercepted communications indicating a recent high-level meeting in Bahawalpur. The meeting was reportedly attended by senior commanders of Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizbul Mujahideen, and The Resistance Front (TRF), along with ISI was behind the Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22, which killed 26 people in Jammu and the meeting, the ISI reportedly pledged significant funding and manpower to redevelop the destroyed terror infrastructure. As a result, repairs are underway at several locations, and efforts are being made to establish new, more secure facilities, the sources said.- EndsTune InMust Watch IN THIS STORY#Pakistan
Korea Herald
20 hours ago
- Business
- Korea Herald
From stickers to safety checks: Line Taiwan's rise as digital super-app
Used by 94% of Taiwan's population, Line evolves from messaging app to vital platform for payments, news, public safety What is a social network to do when it becomes the biggest game in town? In Taiwan, the most popular app is Line, the online service that started as a chat app and has expanded into lifestyle, fintech, content, gaming and e-commerce. After launching in Japan in 2011, Line Taiwan was established in 2013, and today serves 94 percent of Taiwan's population with 22 million monthly active users -- the best penetration rate among all the markets in which Line operates. On average, Taiwanese users spend about an hour a day on the app, generating 100 million calls and 1 billion messages every day. But with that success comes responsibility -- the need to ensure people's data is safe and secure and their information sources are trustworthy. The challenges those tasks entail are well known these days, but it is a test that Line has welcomed, recognizing it is a necessary part of being a market leader. At the heart of Line Taiwan's success has been its ability to localize. Beginning with expressive stickers and a convenient messaging platform, Line gradually built a multi-service ecosystem tailored to the interests and needs of Taiwanese users. This includes content platform Line Today, payment solutions Line Pay and Line Bank, and e-commerce offerings like Line Giftshop. One of Line's most successful service lines has been Line Creators Market, which launched in 2014 and soon became a significant contributor to Taiwan's character merchandising industry. With over 1 million registered creators and approximately 10 million original stickers for sale, the service has helped transform personal creativity into real business opportunities. In fact, last year, the top 10 artists at Line Creators Market in Taiwan averaged 311 million New Taiwan dollars ($10.5 million) in sales each, showing how rewarding a hit character can be. 'I had no drawing experience when I started,' said an anonymous Taiwanese sticker creator. 'Now my stickers are being used by others -- and it's become both a hobby and a source of income.' Beyond their use in messaging, Line Stickers have expanded their influence by collaborating with creators and local communities. In 2022, they partnered with creators in Kaohsiung City to support the Creative Expo Taiwan -- a notable event highlighting the country's creative industries. The expo featured popular characters such as "Thenothingseal" and "Machiko Rabbit" floating along a canal that flows through the city, earning Line Taiwan a major communications award for its 'experiential' creativity. Line has also become a popular presence in digital commerce. Line Giftshop has about 5 million unique buyers, with nearly 1.5 million users having gifted more than twice in a single month and the repurchase frequency increasing by 5.5 percent annually. Line shopping attracts 12 million visitors, collaborating with roughly 1,000 global brands, including Apple, Coach and Samsung. Meanwhile, Line Travel has partnered with leading players like Booking Holdings, Expedia Group and Group, further cementing its role in Taiwan's e-commerce space. Line Today is a comprehensive content platform that delivers real-time news and lifestyle information across 20 categories, including entertainment, sports, food and horoscopes. In collaboration with about 600 media partners, it offers a wide range of news and original programs, covering topics such as finance, culture and variety shows featuring local celebrities. Beyond news delivery, Line Today also enhances user engagement with interactive features, curating trending information on popular places to eat and drink, as well as offering movie show times, rating content and restaurant booking. Fintech is also a key pillar of Line Taiwan's ecosystem. With an estimated 13.1 million users -- more than half of Taiwan's population -- Line Pay is Taiwan's No. 1 mobile payment platform, accepted at over 610,000 locations nationwide, including restaurants, shopping malls, public transportation and even temples. Last year, its total transaction volume reached NT$756 billion, nearly double the volume of 2021, and one in three credit cards in circulation is now linked to the platform. Additionally, Line Pay became the first global Line affiliate to go public, successfully listing on the Taiwan Stock Exchange. Line Pay is also expanding its international footprint. Taiwanese users can pay at close to 45,000 locations in Korea, including major brands like Shilla Duty Free and CU convenience stores. Meanwhile, partnerships with Shinhan Card and Hyundai Card allow Korean tourists to use their domestic apps for Line Pay payments in Taiwan. This cross-border ecosystem enhances travel convenience while creating new opportunities for merchants on both sides. 'Leaving the house without a wallet used to be unthinkable,' said a local user. 'Now, I can pay with Line Pay just about anywhere.' As of December last year, Line Bank Taiwan had reached 2.01 million digital deposit accounts, securing the No. 1 position among internet-only banks in Taiwan. Offering 24/7 access to financial services without the limitations of traditional banks, it was recognized as one of the Global Top 100 Digital Banks by The Asian Banker from 2022 to 2024. Although Line has become the leading digital platform in Taiwan, with that success has come many risks inherent in today's online culture. Fighting back against misinformation, abusive and criminal behavior and other problems is a constant challenge, but Line has been proactive in protecting its users. To build trust, Line Taiwan launched Line Fact Checker in 2019, taking aim at fighting the endemic problem of disinformation and misinformation. By collaborating with public and private sector partners, using automated systems to handle suspicious accounts and holding a wide range of awareness campaigns to combat fraud, Line has worked to support safer digital communication. Financial fraud is another prevalent issue on the internet in Taiwan, as it is globally. In response, Line Taiwan has strengthened its measures to prevent such misconduct, implementing strict advertisement screening and real-name verification processes, alongside collaboration with government agencies. Line works with the Ministry of Digital Affairs to remove accounts impersonating public figures and with the Criminal Investigation Bureau to suspend accounts involved in scams based on official reports. Since 2023, these efforts have led to the suspension of approximately 10,000 scam-related accounts. In addition to cracking down on misconduct and fraud, Line has engaged in annual cybersecurity education campaigns since 2016, promoting digital literacy and fostering a safer online environment for its users. Huang Yi-Feng, chief legal officer at Taipei Computer Association, noted how Line's prominent position in Taiwan carries a significant responsibility in combating online abuse. 'Through close collaboration, Line has taken a proactive role in uniting government, industry and civil society -- automating the management of suspicious accounts, partnering with the Taiwan Internet Sexual Exploitation Prevention Center and promoting media literacy,' he said. 'We look forward to seeing Line Taiwan's continued efforts and strengthened public-private cooperation to create a safer and more trustworthy digital environment.' Line Official Account has also become used by the public and private sectors to deliver alerts and announcements, including government-issued emergency notifications such as earthquake warnings. As Taiwan experiences frequent natural disasters, Line has developed the Line Safety Check feature, enabling users to receive real-time alerts, report their safety status, and check on the well-being of others during emergencies. With a wide range of services -- from messaging and fintech to content and creative platforms -- Line Taiwan has become deeply embedded into people's daily lives. But that key importance has led the company to implement a wide range of measures to build trust and keep its users safe. The nature of the digital era is changing and challenging, but for users in Taiwan, an island known for its tech-savvy population and passionate digital communities, Line Taiwan will continue to be an essential part of everyday life.
Bangkok Post
a day ago
- Bangkok Post
Suspects arrested in loan fraud
Three suspects were arrested for running a nationwide fake Facebook scam, which allegedly tricked nearly 400 victims, resulting in losses exceeding 20 million baht. Pol Maj Gen Wittaya Sriprasertphap, commander of the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), told a press briefing that three male suspects, identified only as Korrakot, 29, Kritanai, 28, and Papontee, 30, were arrested. They were wanted on arrest warrants issued by Songkhla Provincial Court for charges of public fraud, inputting false data into computer systems, and illegally using others' electronic cards. Mr Korrakot and Mr Kritanai were caught at a condominium in Bangkok's Klong Toey district, while Mr Papontee was arrested at his home in Lop Buri. Authorities also seized a red C200 Coupe AMG Mercedes-Benz, 23 mobile phones, six desktop computers and notebooks, a cash counting machine, and two gold bar plates. The seized assets are valued at approximately 4 million baht. The case began in February when a bank staff member sent a report indicating that customers had been duped into applying for credit or debit cards online. Scammers posed as bank staff, claiming that anyone could apply regardless of income, with no fees, by providing only a "very satisfied" rating in a fake customer survey. The victims were misled into completing the application process for the cards. Shortly after activation, their cards' balances were used to make online purchases, transactions they did not authorise or initiate. Investigators alleged that the gang bought Facebook pages with high follower counts, often from so-called "grey market" groups. These pages were recustomised with fake bank logos and names, such as "Xpress Cash" or "Quick Loans". Victims were asked to video call via Line, during which scammers instructed them to display their banking app screens to capture account balances. If balances were low, victims were then asked to transfer money from other accounts, claiming it would improve their chances of approval. Police said the perpetrators then used the victims' card details and one-time password codes to make online purchases, such as gold or luxury goods, which were shipped to pick-up points. Items were then resold for cash. Investigators allege that Mr Korrakot, a computer engineering college dropout, was the ringleader, and he used the scam's profits to fund a lavish lifestyle.
NBC Sports
a day ago
- Sport
- NBC Sports
Phillies at Braves Prediction: Odds, expert picks, starting pitchers, betting trends and stats for June 27
It's Friday, June 27, and the Phillies (47-34) are in Atlanta to take on the Braves (37-43). Mick Abel is slated to take the mound for Philadelphia against Bryce Elder for Atlanta. The Phillies are coming off a series sweep against the Houston Astros. They only scored one run in the three-game series. The Braves also struggled to score last night against the New York Mets. They were shut out and only had three hits last night. Let's dive into the matchup and find a sweat or two. We've got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch tipoff, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts. Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long. Game details & how to watch Phillies at Braves Date: Friday, June 27, 2025 Time: 7:15PM EST Site: Truist Park City: Atlanta, GA Network/Streaming: FanDuel Sports Netwrok South, FanDuel Sports Network Southeast, Gary TV, NBCSP Never miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out. Odds for the Phillies at the Braves The latest odds as of Friday: Moneyline: Phillies (+117), Braves (-136) Spread: Braves -1.5 Total: 9.0 runs Probable starting pitchers for Phillies at Braves Pitching matchup for June 27, 2025: Mick Abel vs. Bryce Elder Phillies: Mick Abel, (2-1, 3.47 ERA) Last outing (New York Mets, 6/21): 3.0 Innings Pitched, 4 Earned Runs Allowed, 6 Hits Allowed, 0 Walks, and 1 StrikeoutsBraves: Bryce Elder, (2-4, 4.77 ERA) Last outing (Miami Marlins, 6/22): 5.1 Innings Pitched, 5 Earned Runs Allowed, 10 Hits Allowed, 1 Walks, and 4 Strikeouts Phillies: Mick Abel, (2-1, 3.47 ERA) Last outing (New York Mets, 6/21): 3.0 Innings Pitched, 4 Earned Runs Allowed, 6 Hits Allowed, 0 Walks, and 1 Strikeouts Braves: Bryce Elder, (2-4, 4.77 ERA) Last outing (Miami Marlins, 6/22): 5.1 Innings Pitched, 5 Earned Runs Allowed, 10 Hits Allowed, 1 Walks, and 4 Strikeouts Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type! Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Phillies at Braves The Braves have won 4 straight divisional matchups at home The Phillies' last 5 road games have stayed under the Total The Braves have failed to cover the Run Line in 5 of their last 7 games If you're looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our MLB Top Trends tool on NBC Sports! Expert picks & predictions for tonight's game between the Phillies and the Braves Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700. Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts. Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager. Here are the best bets our model is projecting for Friday's game between the Phillies and the Braves: Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Atlanta Braves on the Moneyline. Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Philadelphia Phillies at +1.5. Total: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play on the under on the Game Total of 9.0. Want even more MLB best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert MLB Predictions page from NBC Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff: Jay Croucher (@croucherJD) Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper) Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports) Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas)
The Star
2 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Tennis-Wimbledon's human touch yields to electronic eyes but officials embrace new role
FILE PHOTO: Tennis - Wimbledon - All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, Britain - July 4, 2024 Line judge is pictured during the second round match between Madison Keys of the U.S. and China's Wang Yafan REUTERS/Matthew Childs/File Photo BENGALURU (Reuters) -The All England Club's decision to jettison line judges in favour of technology carries an air of inevitability as the world embraces AI but the human arbiters of the boundaries of the tennis court are hoping to continue playing a key role. Convention has almost been a religion during Wimbledon's 148-year history but advancements in technology have been impossible to resist with live Electronic Line Calling (ELC) set to take over from impeccably-attired line judges when action begins at the grasscourt major on Monday. The tournament's once-robust pool of around 300 line judges has been cut to 80 and they will serve as "match assistants", who support chair umpires and step in should the ELC - powered by more than 450 cameras - fail in any of the 18 courts in use. The Association of British Tennis Officials (ABTO) said the new position, which will be adopted at events that use live ELC, provided a fresh avenue for its officials with strong interest expressed in the role. "Whilst this evolution has resulted in a reduction in the overall officiating days for line umpires, the impact has been partially offset by the creation of the match assistant position," the ABTO told Reuters via email. The body noted that although line judges will no longer be used at Wimbledon or ATP tournaments, there were still opportunities for them at other levels including at many WTA events and ITF World Tennis Tour tournaments. Interest in the traditional role is likely to be sustained with the pathway to becoming a match assistant on the grandest stage involving training as line umpires. First deployed as an experiment at the Next Gen ATP Finals in Milan in 2017, the ELC system was adopted more widely during the COVID-19 pandemic before eventually being used across all ATP Tour events from this year. The Australian Open and U.S. Open have also replaced line judges with ELC, but the French Open has not favoured the switch despite the availability of technology specific to claycourts as traces left by the ball help umpires with their decision-making. LARGELY POPULAR The ELC system is largely popular among the players even if some, including world number one Aryna Sabalenka and three-times Grand Slam finalist Alexander Zverev, expressed their disbelief at decisions during the recent claycourt season. Tournaments relying on the human eye are not entirely immune to controversial calls, however, and the All England Club's move that comes after extensive testing last year is likely to only ruffle the feathers of the most staunch traditionalists. Britain's Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) said it understood the decision amid changes to officiating globally and expressed its commitment to continue developing officials in the country going forward. "We are working with the ABTO to develop a joint strategy that will ensure officials can be retained within the sport, new officials can be recruited and the officiating community will be supported through the changes," the LTA said. Line judges often bring their own theatrical element to the sport with their distinctive voices, postures, and interactions with players but All England Club chief executive Sally Bolton said many of them understood that change would come. "The time is right for us to move on," said Bolton. "We absolutely value the commitment that those line umpires have provided to the Championships over many years. "We do have a significant number of them coming back in a new role ... so we're really pleased to have many of them still involved with delivering the Championships." (Reporting by Shrivathsa Sridhar in Bengaluru, editing by Pritha Sarkar)
