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Business Standard
02-06-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
PhonePe's Guardrails: Future of Payment Security
The world of digital payments is changing rapidly, and with consumers expecting more reliable and seamless transactions, the payments ecosystem has become more complex. As these innovations are embraced, users' expectations for safe and secure experiences continue to grow. The future of digital payments, therefore, depends on trust, privacy, and security. Faster payments come with challenges, making certain types of fraud easier to execute. For instance, scammers have started using IVR (Interactive Voice Response) calls to impersonate trusted institutions like banks and telecom providers. These fake calls trick people into believing the requests are legitimate, asking them to verify or authenticate private information, which can lead to fraudulent transactions. Another growing concern is the misuse of generative AI, which has introduced sophisticated scams like phishing and deepfakes. Fraudsters use these tools to convincingly pose as family members, claiming they are in trouble and/or in urgent need of money. These scams prey on emotions, making it harder for people to detect the deception. Generative AI is also being exploited to bypass digital KYC (Know Your Customer) processes, allowing bad actors to impersonate legitimate users. As these threats evolve, PhonePe has adopted stronger security protocols and continuous user education. By combining advanced technology with awareness initiatives, PhonePe is creating a safer digital ecosystem and helping users navigate this ever-changing landscape with confidence. PhonePe is consistently implementing cutting-edge technologies and fostering strong partnerships to ensure a safe and seamless experience for its users, while proactively addressing the evolving challenges in the payments ecosystem. Collaborations and partnerships To strengthen the fight against fraud, the payments giant has been actively collaborating with key stakeholders across industries and regulatory bodies: Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs): PhonePe works closely with both central and state-level LEAs to share real-time data, conduct fraud investigations, and provide training on emerging fraud technologies. Together, they establish protocols to address fraudulent activities effectively and enhance overall awareness. Alliance of Reporting Entities in India for Anti Money Laundering/Combatting Financial Terrorism (ARIFAC): As a key contributor to this anti-money laundering forum, PhonePe has co-hosted training sessions, including engagements for the South Chapter, to share expertise and strengthen the industry's defenses. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and banking partners: PhonePe has streamlined channels like web portals and emails to enable banks to resolve disputes in real time. Regular interactions with banks helps the company identify fraud tactics and improve redressal strategies. Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI): PhonePe actively participates in initiatives with DoT and TRAI to identify and act against bad actors, such as those using churned or deactivated phone numbers for fraud. Industry seminars and conferences: PhonePe's Trust and Safety team frequently shares best practices at public forums, contributing to the broader industry efforts to improve safety standards. Innovation in technology To stay ahead of evolving threats, PhonePe continuously innovates and deploys advanced technologies that ensure user safety. Profile-based authentication: PhonePe's risk management system combines real-time aggregation and personalized models, developed by its data science team. This enables the company to tailor user experiences while enhancing fraud detection across PhonePe's products. These models leverage cutting-edge technologies, such as HBase, to process large-scale data and enable quick decision-making. Futureproofing against emerging risks: PhonePe's scalable platforms are designed to manage growing transaction volumes and detect new-age fraud, such as doctored photos, deepfake audio, location spoofing, and screen sharing. By blending partnerships with technological innovation, PhonePe is setting new benchmarks for trust and safety in the digital payments ecosystem. Its priority remains protecting users and ensuring a secure, seamless payments experience. Upcoming features in PhonePe's Trust & Safety ecosystem PhonePe continues to roll out cutting-edge features aimed at strengthening fraud prevention and risk management. Anomaly detection models for early warning: These unsupervised machine learning models automatically flag unusual patterns across platforms, acting as an early warning system. The internal platform allows rapid development, testing, and deployment of fraud detection algorithms, keeping PhonePe ahead of threat actors. 360-degree risk profiling: From Day 0, PhonePe builds a comprehensive risk profile for every customer, merchant, bank account, and device. This is achieved by combining internal data with relevant external insights. Machine learning models then provide instant, accurate risk scoring across a vast ecosystem that includes 60+ crore customers, 4+ crore merchants, and over 33 crore daily transactions*. Importantly, this is done with user privacy as a top priority. Case management system for real-time response: PhonePe's enhanced system supports: A consolidated view of risk data for real-time investigations Structured, time-bound resolution workflows Integration of AML, chargeback, and support operations into streamlined modules Generative AI tools to accelerate incident analysis Graph-based cluster detection: As fraud evolves from individual acts to coordinated clusters, PhonePe has implemented graph-based detection to identify anomalous group activities and enable real-time threat mitigation. These tools enable PhonePe's risk operations teams to address issues methodically, improving outcomes for users and merchants. Security remains core to the company's mission, and its aim is to continue securing India's digital payments ecosystem with 'Made in India' innovations that deter fraud, protect users, and preserve privacy.


Business Recorder
30-05-2025
- Business Recorder
Five terrorists killed in Balochistan
RAWALPINDI: On 28 May 25, five terrorists belonging to Indian proxy Fitna al Hindustan were sent to hell in two separate engagements in Balochistan. An intelligence based operation was conducted in Loralai District, on reported presence of Fitna al Hindustan terrorists. During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged the terrorists' location and after an intense fire exchange, four Indian sponsored terrorists were successfully neutralized. Weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from them. The killed Indian sponsored terrorists were actively involved in numerous terrorist activities, including heinous acts of terrorism on N-70 near Rarasham on 26 August 2024 and 18 February 2025, that resulted in martyrdom of thirty innocent civilians. The killed Indian sponsored terrorists were highly wanted by Law Enforcement Agencies, and were relentlessly pursued by the security forces. In another engagement that took place in Kech District, one more terrorist was sent to hell. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025


Daily Tribune
23-03-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
86th Pakistan Day !
I congratulate the entire nation on Pakistan Day. Pakistan was established after great sacrifices and untiring efforts of our founding fathers and workers of the Pakistan Movement. Today, we face significant political, economic, and security challenges. Pakistan must navigate complex realities, tackle economic pressures, and pursue sustainable development. We continue to confront the menace of terrorism and our brave Armed Forces are making immense sacrifices to safeguard our homeland. Yet, we possess the potential to overcome these challenges and emerge stronger. The spirit of the Pakistan Resolution reminds us that Unity, Faith, and Discipline should be our guiding principles for success. We must strengthen national security, revitalise the economy, advance agriculture, ensure energy security, and create opportunities for our youth. We must invest in healthcare and social welfare so that no Pakistani is left behind. Following a foreign policy under the guidelines given by the Father of the Nation, Pakistan continues to advocate for peaceful coexistence, regional stability, and mutual cooperation. We are determined to build stronger relationships with our neighbours and the global community, based on mutual respect and shared prosperity. At the same time, we remain steadfast in defending our sovereignty and territorial integrity. Our Armed Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies have made immense sacrifices to protect our homeland, and we salute their bravery. On this day, we reaffirm our steadfast support for the people of Palestine in their struggle for self-determination. The road ahead is challenging, but not impossible. Let us honour the sacrifices of our heroes by shaping a strong, united, and prosperous Pakistan. -- Heartfelt greetings to all Pakistanis on this momentous day of national celebration! This day stands as a defining moment in the history of South Asia's Muslims. Eighty-five years ago, on March 23rd, the visionary Muslim leadership of the subcontinent united with an unwavering resolve to lay the foundation for an independent homeland. Guided by the inspiring leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, they envisioned a state where Muslims could live with dignity, freedom, and self-respect – a land shaped by their aspirations and values. On this landmark day in 1940, the Lahore Resolution set the course for that vision. Just seven years later, Pakistan emerged as an independent nation – a testament to the unyielding spirit, perseverance, and sacrifices of our forefathers. Over the decades, Pakistan has shown extraordinary strength. From an emerging nation to a nuclear power, our journey has been shaped by perseverance and determination. Yet, this is not where we stop. It will take tireless effort and a collective vision to realise the dream of our founding father. Our economy is now on a path to sustained growth. Inflation is declining, investor confidence rising, and macroeconomic fundamentals improving. We salute our martyrs and security forces whose sacrifices keep us united and strong. Let Pakistan Day in Ramadan renew our commitment to perseverance, unity, and progress. Pakistan Paindabad! -- H.E. Ambassador Saqib Rauf On Pakistan Day, we honour the sacrifices of our heroes and reaffirm our commitment to the ideals upon which our nation was founded. Let us emulate the tireless struggle of our forefathers for a united, peaceful, prosperous Pakistan. Bahrain has always stood by us. Together, we can transform this brotherhood into shared prosperity through strategic investments, economic cooperation, and strengthened people-to-people ties. -- PAKISTAN DAY MESSAGE FROM PAKISTAN SCHOOL, BAHRAIN Pakistan Day holds a special place in the hearts of every Muslim in the subcontinent. Each year, on March 23rd, we commemorate the adoption of the Pakistan Resolution in 1940 at Lahore, which symbolizes the ideals of national unity, social justice, religious harmony, economic equality, legal protection, cultural tolerance, an enlightened vision for the future, the elimination of ethnic and religious differences, and above all, a patriotic commitment to these ideals. On this significant day, Pakistan School extends its warmest wishes to all our fellow compatriots in Bahrain. Let us salute and remember the sacrifices and struggles of countless individuals who contributed to this great achievement. May this day be a reminder of the unity, strength, and pride that binds our nations. Wishing everyone a joyous and prosperous Pakistan Day! We are pleased to share a brief overview of Pakistan School, Bahrain, on this joyous occasion. Schooling System The baseline of Pakistan School goes back to the later part of the 1960s when the leading visionary members of the community realized the need for a schooling system for their children, leading to the establishment of a small primary school in 1968 in a rented building in Fareej Fadhel area of Manama. After a few years, the school was upgraded to secondary level education following affiliation with the Federal Board, Islamabad, Pakistan. In 1984, the new campus of the Pakistan School was constructed in Isa Town, which was inaugurated by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander, and First Deputy Premier. Two new blocks, Jinnah Block and Sir Sayed Block, were constructed in Isa Town Campus, between 1994-95. Today, Pakistan School has two wings: Manama (Primary) and the main campus Isa Town. Pakistan School has laid down a well-defined, effective, practicable, and productive network of extra and co-curricular activities for the personality and character building of the students. These activities are conducted on inter-class, inter-house, and inter-school levels. Pakistan School students have been performing remarkably in Bahrain level sports, co-curricular, and cultural activities. Some of our students are currently playing in under-16 cricket. Under the able leadership of Pakistan School, it has covered many distinctive landmarks during the previous couple of years in the academic and administrative areas. Progress In the last few years, the school has brought about tremendous and unprecedented progress in all spheres. A lot of infrastructure development, modern facilities to the students, and professional development programs for the faculty are a few to name here. Pakistan School's Federal Board results have shown consistent and impressive improvement over the last few years. Around 1126 students have achieved A and A+ grades in the Federal Board, Islamabad examinations, out of which 449 students are Bahrainis. Scholarships They have been given scholarships by the school and later on many of them were eligible to get scholarships in the University of Bahrain as well. Students of Pakistan School have once again maintained their consistency of exemplary performance and achievements by clinching excellent results, i.e., an unprecedented 94.62% in the Federal Board Exam of HSSC Annual 2024. Besides Federal Board Examination, our students have also showcased their skills in the TIMMS, PIRLS, and World Scholar's Cup. Pakistan School students have won 856 Gold and 598 Silver medals and trophies in the World Scholar's Cup competitions from 2018 to 2025. Outstanding Achievements in WSC in 2025 Mr. Sami ur Rehman, Chairman, Board of Management, Pakistan School, Bahrain • 135 Gold Medals • 74 Silver Medals • Team Challenge – First Position • Champion Scholar – First Position • Jac Khor Special Award – First Position (Scholar's Challenge is a 120-multiple-choice question exam across six subjects. The highest scorer is honored with the Jac Khor Award.) • Literature & Media – First Position • Art & Music – First Position • History – First Position • Writing Champion – Second Position • Overall Team Position – Third Position Among the distinguished achievers, Sarah Saif (Grade 11 G2) made history by securing first position in multiple subject areas and earning the prestigious title of Best Scholar of the Contest. A majority of Pakistan School's teams have successfully qualified for the Global Round, marking yet another milestone in the institution's illustrious participation in the World Scholars' Cup. This success underscores the school's unwavering commitment to academic excellence and holistic student development. Pakistan School students participated in the Olympics and relished the opportunity and performed well. They were rewarded with medals by the Bahrain Olympic Committee for their performance and participation. Pakistan School has earned a name of its own for participation in the national, cultural, and social festivals to strengthen the bond of its deep love and affiliation with the Kingdom of Bahrain. The sole aim of Pakistan School is to create a new generation inculcating in them qualities needed to be visionaries to lead their country in the future.


Express Tribune
15-02-2025
- Express Tribune
15 Khwarij killed, four security personal martyred in KPK
Listen to article Over a dozen most wanted khwarij terrorists killed by security forces in two separated operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province According to ISPR, on 15 February 2025, fifteen Khwarij were sent to hell by the security forces in two separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. The operations were conducted by the Security Forces in general area Hathala, Dera Ismail Khan District, on reported presence of Khwarij. During the operation, Pakistan's brave soldiers successfully located the khwarij location and nine terrorists sent to hell including ring leaders Kharji Farma alias Saqib, Kharji Amanullah alias toori, Kharji Saeed alias Liaquat and Kharji Bilal sent to hell. The khwarij were involved in countless terror related activities and were highly wanted by the Law Enforcement Agencies. In another operation conducted in general area Miran Shah, North Waziristan District, Six khwarij were effectively neutralized by the security forces. However, during intense fire exchange, Lieutenant Muhammad Hassaan Arshaf (age: 21 years, resident of District Lahore) leading his troops from front, fought gallantly and embraced Shahadat along with his three men. The three soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice include Naib Subedar Muhammad Bilal (age: 39 years, resident of District Dera Ismail khan), Sepoy Farhat Ullah (age: 27 years, resident of District Lakki Marwat) and Sepoy Himat Khan (age: 29 years, resident of District Mohmand). Sanitization operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Kharji found in the area as the security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave men further strengthen our resolve. Over a dozen most wanted khwarij terrorists killed by security forces in two separated operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province According to ISPR, on 15 February 2025, fifteen Khwarij were sent to hell by the security forces in two separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. The operations were conducted by the Security Forces in general area Hathala, Dera Ismail Khan District, on reported presence of Khwarij. During the operation, Pakistan's brave soldiers successfully located the khwarij location and nine terrorists sent to hell including ring leaders Kharji Farma alias Saqib, Kharji Amanullah alias toori, Kharji Saeed alias Liaquat and Kharji Bilal sent to hell. The khwarij were involved in countless terror related activities and were highly wanted by the Law Enforcement Agencies. In another operation conducted in general area Miran Shah, North Waziristan District, Six khwarij were effectively neutralized by the security forces. However, during intense fire exchange, Lieutenant Muhammad Hassaan Arshaf (age: 21 years, resident of District Lahore) leading his troops from front, fought gallantly and embraced Shahadat along with his three men. The three soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice include Naib Subedar Muhammad Bilal (age: 39 years, resident of District Dera Ismail khan), Sepoy Farhat Ullah (age: 27 years, resident of District Lakki Marwat) and Sepoy Himat Khan (age: 29 years, resident of District Mohmand). Sanitization operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Kharji found in the area as the security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave men further strengthen our resolve.