Latest news with #VoiceoverInternetProtocol
Forbes
5 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Why States Must Stop Treating Your Smartphone Like A Dumb Rotary Phone
Woman Talking on Telephone (Photo by Library of Congress/Corbis/VCG via Getty Images) Plain old telephone service (POTS) has been dying a slow death in the United States since the turn of the century. The number of POTS lines peaked at 192.5 million in 2000; by June 2024, only 7.6 million residential POTS lines remained. For much of the 20th century, almost every American household used only POTS to make a phone call. Now, only 1.3% of households rely on POTS to do so. What happened? Consumers flocked to mobile and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) – advanced platforms that did not exist during the heyday of POTS's monopoly reign. The total number of mobile telephone lines in the U.S. surpassed POTS in 2004. Today, there are more than 388 million mobile lines in service. The number of VoIP lines passed POTS in 2013. There are now more than 64 million VoIP lines in service. This is not news to the tens of millions of Americans who cut their telephone cord years ago and embraced mobile telephony or VoIP and all the advanced features they offer, like nationwide calling and the go-anywhere convenience of a cellphone. Unfortunately, for some state policymakers, the horse and buggy that is POTS continues to loom large, shaping their misinformed view of the advanced communications sector. Worryingly, some states have not only resisted removing outdated POTS laws from their books; they are actively seeking to extend those rules to new communications technologies, which have thrived in a competitive marketplace governed by a deregulatory framework. By doing so, states will undermine investment in new networks, increase prices, and ultimately harm consumers. None of this is good for America. Backwards-looking, heavy-handed regulation never has been. Go Your Own Way…Or Maybe Not? When it comes to applying old rules to new communications technologies, California has been in the vanguard. It has refused requests to roll back POTS-era rules; sought to regulate VoIP like POTS; and is finalizing rules that would hold competitive offerings like mobile and VoIP to a more punitive version of service quality standards originally devised for Ma Bell. At the same time, though, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), along with dozens of other states, have been actively engaged in regulatory modernization aimed at removing POTS rules to incentivize and accelerate the deployment of modern networks. California's approach is misguided and fails to put customers first. States sometimes choose to forge their own path on certain issues. This seems to happen more often in California than elsewhere. Indeed, the state has a history of choosing an alternate path on issues like vehicle emissions and data privacy. In many of those instances, however, California framed its actions as necessary to either fill a perceived gap left by federal inaction, as it did when it passed a privacy law after years of failure by Congress to do so, or to go above and beyond existing federal rules, as it has done with vehicle emissions (California's federal waiver allowing it to impose stricter emissions standards is at risk of being revoked). On issues of national importance, outlier approaches create collective action problems, which stifle progress towards achieving a shared federal goal. Assuring an orderly and timely transition away from POTS has been a national imperative since the early 2010s, when the Obama-era FCC began taking steps to relieve POTS providers of monopoly-era obligations so they could invest in modern networks and improve the services that consumers are actually using. Each subsequent FCC, under both Republican and Democratic leadership, has taken additional steps down this path. This reflects and furthers the country's bipartisan light-touch approach to regulating advanced communications platforms at a national level. Consistency and predictability are critical to maximizing investment, innovation, and overall consumer welfare gains. California has lost its way. Its proposed service quality rules illustrate just how far outside the mainstream the state is on these issues and how continued pursuit of its unique – and highly regulatory – agenda for communications services could impede national transition efforts. Welcome To The Hotel California The notion of service quality rules might sound innocuous, but the rules proposed in California are incredibly exacting and could end up harming consumers rather than protecting them. In a nutshell, California seeks to regulate voice service quality by applying standards governing how providers of all ilk – POTS, mobile, and VoIP – address almost every aspect of service, including how quickly they act in response to an installation request; reporting on and fixing outages; crediting customers for service disruptions; and how long it takes for a customer service rep to pick up the phone. In many cases, the proposed rules are stricter, and the penalties more punitive, than the rules devised just for POTS, the antiquated technology deployed and governed as a natural monopoly service. Where's the beef? Numerous stakeholders of all sizes have faulted regulators for failing to provide compelling data demonstrating actual negative trends in service outages or degradation in service quality. For example, many have argued that the outage data cited by regulators in support of their rules generally fail to account for the underlying cause of the disruption. Oftentimes, a mobile or VoIP outage is attributable to a loss of electric power, a common occurrence in California that is beyond the control of communications service providers. For these reasons, the FCC has rightfully forged a different approach, one that supports investment in network reliability and encourages collaboration among communications providers and electric utilities to restore service. At the same time, there appears to have been little effort by regulators in California to weigh the compliance costs for providers against the benefits the proposed service quality rules purport to deliver to customers. This is especially relevant in the context of POTS, the user base of which is rapidly shrinking. Per the latest FCC data, there are less than 600,000 residential POTS subscriptions in California (population: 39.4 million). POTS prices will inevitably rise as service providers pass through some portion of their higher compliance costs to a smaller number of customers. Meanwhile, the compliance costs for newly imposed standards on mobile and VoIP providers will also likely be passed through in part to customers, resulting in higher prices for them as well. To the extent some of these costs cannot be recouped, there will be less capital available to service providers to invest in next-generation networks or to invest in the same customer service tools the rules claim to incent. This ultimately harms consumers and frustrates timely realization of an overarching goal to move on from POTS so that new platforms are not burdened, directly or indirectly, by monopoly-era rules. What's Next California is not alone in dragging its feet on the transition away from POTS. Numerous states still have POTS-era rules in effect. Some, following California's lead, are also exploring whether to regulate broadband, VoIP, and mobile like traditional telephone service. Inevitably, these actions will trigger lawsuits, with service providers arguing that federal law limits state authority to regulate non-POTS services. Even in the context of POTS, arguments could be made that state efforts impeding fulfillment of national goals for the POTS transition might also be susceptible to preemption. A sounder approach would be for state policymakers to listen to what consumers are telling them about their communications preferences and react accordingly. In the case of voice communications, consumers have been voting with their feet for years. Unlike 50 or 100 years ago when POTS ruled the world, there is no shortage of options for people to communicate with each other. And now with satellite 'direct to cell' technology rolling out alongside grant funds via the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, which will facilitate universal broadband availability, there are few parts of the country where some form of non-POTS communications platform is unavailable. In this new environment, providers are aggressively competing on service quality, speed, latency, price, and a host of other service parameters. Regulation is not a bad word, but in the advanced communications arena, the type of regulation being considered by California and others is simply not necessary. If a customer feels let down by one voice or non-voice service, they can easily switch to another. And that is exactly what they are doing. Any action that impedes these dynamics should be flatly rejected because unnecessarily regulating a competitive marketplace will only harm consumers. States might also take a page from the FCC and adopt a 'delete, delete, delete' mindset and begin to actively review and repeal antiquated regulations. Regulators can do their job if they deregulate. There is no requirement that they must regulate just for the sake of regulating. Finally, the spate of recent regulatory actions in California only adds to the urgency for Congress to update federal communications law. This is long overdue and critical now that the Supreme Court has made clear that administrative agencies like the FCC can only act according to specific Congressional delegations of authority. An update that empowers the FCC to facilitate a smooth transition from POTS by allowing it to preempt burdensome and backward-looking regulatory actions like those in California is needed.
Time Business News
27-05-2025
- Time Business News
Best VPN Tricks No One Talks About
When it comes to using a VPN, most people think about privacy and security. But there's so much more to it than just that. In this article, we'll explore some of the lesser-known tricks that can help you get the most out of your VPN. From making calls over the internet to accessing content from around the globe, these tips will show you how a VPN can enhance your online experience in ways you might not have considered before. I've been messing around with VPNs for a while now, and one thing that's really stood out is how they can help with VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calls. Think about it: you're traveling, using public Wi-Fi, and need to make an important call. A VPN can be a lifesaver. Using a VPN encrypts your VoIP traffic, adding a layer of security that's super important, especially when you're on networks you don't fully trust. I remember this one time in a coffee shop where the Wi-Fi seemed sketch, but I had to jump on a call. Firing up my VPN gave me some peace of mind. Here's why I think it matters: Security: Keeps your conversations private. Bypassing Restrictions: Some countries block VoIP services, but a VPN can get around that. Cost Savings: Using VoIP with a VPN can be cheaper than traditional phone calls, especially internationally. It's not just about hiding your location; it's about making sure your voice data isn't intercepted. Plus, if you're using free VoIP services like WhatsApp or Skype, a VPN can help you bypass restrictions that some governments put in place to protect their own telecom companies. I've seen this firsthand when trying to call family overseas – a VPN made all the difference. I've noticed that some VPNs work better than others for VoIP. It's worth testing internet speed with a few different ones to see which gives you the most stable connection. After all, nobody wants a choppy call when they're trying to have a serious conversation. I've had good luck with a few of the top rated VPN providers, but it really depends on the server location and network conditions. It's all about finding what works best for you. Worried about who's reading your messages? You're not alone. In today's world, keeping your conversations private can feel like a constant battle. A VPN can be a surprisingly effective tool in this fight. Let's dive into how it works. Encryption is key. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it harder for anyone to snoop on your messages. Think of it as putting your messages in a secure envelope before sending them. Privacy matters . Many popular messaging apps don't offer end-to-end encryption by default. A VPN adds an extra layer of security, ensuring your messages are seen only by the intended recipient. . Many popular messaging apps don't offer end-to-end encryption by default. A VPN adds an extra layer of security, ensuring your messages are seen only by the intended recipient. VoIP calls get a boost. Even if your VoIP service has encryption, a VPN provides additional protection, giving you peace of mind when you speak your mind. For a VPN that offers the best privacy features, check out the most private VPN. Using a VPN for messaging privacy isn't about hiding something; it's about protecting your right to communicate freely and securely. It's about ensuring that your personal conversations remain personal. Here's a simple comparison of messaging security with and without a VPN: Feature Without VPN With VPN Encryption Limited Strong IP Masking No Yes Data Protection Vulnerable Secure Privacy Level Low High So, next time you're sending a message, consider firing up your VPN. It's a simple step that can make a big difference in protecting your privacy . Ever leave your computer at home with all your files on it? Yeah, me too. Using a VPN to encrypt your traffic when remote accessing your main PC is a no-brainer. It's like having a super secure tunnel straight to your home network. Think of it this way: Keeps your data safe while you're away. Encrypts all traffic, so no one can snoop. Easy to set up and use. It's a simple way to add an extra layer of security to your home network, especially if you're accessing it from public Wi-Fi or other unsecured networks. Plus, it gives you peace of mind knowing your files are safe. It's not just about files, though. It's about having that secure connection to your digital life back home. You can even set up a VPN on your home router, so all devices connected to your home network are automatically protected. This is especially useful if you have smart home devices that might not have built-in security features. You can set up a VPN to protect your home network. College networks can be tricky. Sometimes they block certain websites or services, which can be a real pain when you're trying to study or just relax. A VPN can help you bypass these restrictions and access the content you need. Plus, it adds an extra layer of security, which is always a good thing when you're on a public network. Bypass content restrictions. Enhance online security. Access resources from anywhere. Using a VPN on a college network is like having a secret tunnel. It lets you get to where you need to go without anyone knowing, and it keeps your data safe along the way. Many students find themselves needing to access their university's network from abroad. Maybe they've gone home for the summer, or perhaps they're studying abroad for a semester. Whatever the reason, a VPN can make it possible to access college networks as if you were still on campus. This is especially useful for accessing intranets or other resources that are only available to on-campus users. NordVPN is a great option for students, especially with the student discounts they offer. Setting up a mobile hotspot can also be a useful trick. Here's how: Go to System > Network & Internet on your Windows PC. Turn on Mobile hotspot. Click into Mobile hotspot to see the network name and password. Customize these by clicking Edit. Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings. Find your VPN provider with an Ethernet cable icon (e.g., ExpressVPN TAP Adapter). Right-click your VPN provider, select Properties > Sharing. Check Allow other network users to connect through this computer's Internet connection and Allow other network users to control or disable the shared Internet connection. In the dropdown under Home networking connection, select Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter (e.g., Local Area Connection 2). Connect your game console, Roku, or other device to the new hotspot. Ever been downloading something and your VPN suddenly drops? That's where a kill switch comes in handy. It's a safety net. Basically, a VPN kill switch automatically cuts off your internet connection if your VPN connection fails. This prevents your real IP address from being exposed. Think of it like this: Without a kill switch, if your VPN drops, your computer defaults back to your regular internet connection, potentially revealing your location and data. With a kill switch, the internet stops until the VPN reconnects, keeping you safe. It's especially useful when using public Wi-Fi or torrenting. I remember once, I was downloading a large file, and my VPN glitched out. Luckily, I had a kill switch enabled, and it immediately stopped the download. Saved me from a potential headache! It's a simple feature, but it can make a big difference in your online security . A good VPN should feature a reliable kill switch to ensure your data isn't compromised, even for a second. It's easy to think a VPN makes you totally invisible online, but that's not always the case. While a VPN does a great job of hiding your IP address and encrypting your traffic, some VPN providers themselves might be keeping tabs on your activity. It's kind of ironic, right? You're using a VPN to avoid trackers , but the VPN itself could be tracking you. That's why it's super important to choose a VPN provider carefully. Look for VPNs with a clear and transparent no-logs policy. This means they don't store any information about your browsing history, IP address, connection timestamps, or anything else that could be used to identify you. Think of it like this: you're trying to hide from the nosy neighbor (your ISP), but you don't want to move into a house with an even nosier landlord (a shady VPN provider). Here are a few things to keep in mind: Read the privacy policy: This is the most important step. Make sure you understand what data the VPN collects and how it's used. Look for independent audits: Some VPNs have their no-logs policies verified by third-party auditors. This adds an extra layer of trust. Consider the VPN's jurisdiction: VPNs are subject to the laws of the country where they're based. Choose a VPN based in a country with strong privacy laws. Check for transparency reports: Some VPNs publish transparency reports that detail any requests they've received for user data. This can give you an idea of how the VPN handles these requests. Using a VPN is a great way to establish a secure connection and improve your online privacy, but it's not a magic bullet. You still need to be smart about choosing a VPN provider and taking other steps to protect your data. So, you're thinking about getting a VPN, huh? Smart move. But before you commit, let's talk about free trials. They're like test-driving a car before you buy it – except instead of a car, it's your online privacy we're talking about. If you want to see what real users recommend, browsing through free VPN best Reddit threads can help you find trial-friendly options that are actually worth your time. Most people don't realize how many VPNs actually offer free trials. It's a great way to see if a VPN's speed and server locations meet your needs. Plus, you get to poke around the interface and see if it's something you'll actually use. Don't just jump into a long-term subscription. Take advantage of those free trials. It's a no-brainer way to find the perfect VPN for you without spending a dime upfront. Here's the deal: Look for official trials: Some VPNs offer them right on their website. Check app stores: Sometimes, you'll find trials exclusive to iOS or Android apps. For example, NordVPN is highlighted for its mobile free trial. Read the fine print: Know what you're getting into. Some trials have data limits or other restrictions. It's all about being a savvy shopper. Don't be afraid to bounce around between a few trials before settling on one. You might be surprised at what you discover. So, you're thinking about getting a VPN, but you're not 100% sure if it's right for you? Well, here's a little secret: many VPN providers offer money-back guarantees . It's like a safety net, letting you try out the service without fully committing. These guarantees usually range from 30 to 45 days, giving you plenty of time to see if the VPN meets your needs. I mean, who doesn't like a risk-free trial, right? Here's how it usually works: Sign up for a VPN plan. Use the VPN as you normally would. If you're not satisfied within the guarantee period, request a refund. Just make sure to read the fine print. Some providers might have specific conditions or limitations on their money-back guarantees. For example, they might require you to contact customer support before requesting a refund, or they might only offer a partial refund if you've used a certain amount of bandwidth. It's a pretty sweet deal, honestly. You get to test out the VPN's features, server speeds, and overall performance without worrying about wasting your money. If it doesn't work out, you simply request a refund and move on. It's a win-win! So, you're trying to frag some noobs, but your ping is higher than Snoop Dogg? I get it. It's the worst. Most people think VPNs always slow you down, but that's not the whole story. Sometimes, a VPN can actually make your gaming experience smoother. Let's dive in. Your ISP might be throttling your connection. They see you're gaming and sucking up bandwidth, so they slow you down. Sneaky, right? A VPN can hide what you're doing, so they can't target your gaming traffic. This can lead to a more stable and sometimes faster connection. I remember when I was playing this online game, and I was constantly lagging. I got a VPN, connected to a server close to the game server, and boom! The lag was gone. It was like magic. Think of it like this: the internet is a highway, and your ISP is controlling the traffic. A VPN is like a secret tunnel that bypasses the traffic jam. It's not always faster, but sometimes it's exactly what you need. To find the ideal no lag VPN, you need to test different servers and protocols to see what works best for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind: Server Location: Choose a VPN server that's close to the game server. The closer you are, the lower your ping will be. VPN Protocol: Some protocols are faster than others. Try WireGuard or OpenVPN for a good balance of speed and security. VPN Quality: Not all VPNs are created equal. Some have faster servers and better infrastructure than others. Look for a gaming VPN with a good reputation. I've found that using a VPN isn't always a guaranteed speed boost, but it's worth a shot if you're experiencing lag or throttling. Plus, it adds an extra layer of security, which is always a good thing. For many, the idea of unrestricted internet access might seem normal, but in some countries, governments heavily restrict what people can see online. A VPN can be a simple way to bypass ISP restrictions and access the uncensored internet. A VPN can help you access sites and services that are blocked in certain regions. This includes social media, news outlets, and other resources that might be unavailable without a VPN. It's like having a key to unlock the full potential of the internet, no matter where you are. Using a VPN to avoid censorship can be a game-changer, especially if you're traveling or living in a place with strict internet controls. It allows you to stay connected, informed, and in touch with the world, without having to worry about government restrictions. Here are some reasons why you might want to use a VPN to avoid censorship: Access blocked news sites and social media. Communicate freely with friends and family. Bypass government firewalls and filters. Protect your online activity from surveillance. Access torrenting sites. It's important to remember that not all VPNs are created equal. Some are better at bypassing censorship than others. Do your research to find a VPN that's known for its ability to evade government firewalls and protect your privacy. So there you have it—some VPN tricks that don't get enough attention. Sure, everyone talks about privacy and security, but there's a lot more you can do with a VPN. From accessing content that's usually blocked to saving some cash on subscriptions, these tips can really change how you use the internet. Remember, a VPN is more than just a tool for hiding your IP. It can help you enjoy a better online experience overall. So, give these tricks a shot and see how they work for you. Who knows? You might just find a new favorite way to surf the web. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, helps protect your online activity by creating a secure connection between your device and the internet. It hides your IP address and encrypts your data, making it harder for others to see what you're doing online. Yes! Using a VPN can help improve your gaming experience by reducing lag and allowing you to connect to servers in different regions, which can lead to faster gameplay. Absolutely! A VPN adds an extra layer of security when you're using public Wi-Fi, protecting your personal information from hackers and snoopers. A VPN can help you access streaming services that might be blocked in your area. By connecting to a server in a different country, you can watch shows and movies that are only available there. When choosing a VPN, look for features like strong encryption, a no-logs policy, fast speeds, and good customer support. It's also helpful if it has a user-friendly interface. Yes, there are free VPNs, but they often have limitations like slower speeds, data caps, or less security. It's usually better to choose a paid VPN for better protection and performance. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time of India
25-05-2025
- Time of India
VoIP scam busted in Ahmedabad, gang uses fake TRAI threats to cheat thousands
Both accused in police custody AHMEDABAD: A sophisticated cybercrime involving Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calling scam — was dismantled in the city which cheated citizens by impersonating officials and threatening to block their sim cards. Two alleged members of a cybercrime gang, Lovekesh Kumar and Anubhav Gupta (also referred to as Anurag Gupta), were arrested earlier in Delhi and Uttarakhand respectively. The gang members impersonated as officials fromthe Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and threatened victims that their sim cards would be blocked within two hours. Those who fell prey to this initial threat were then targeted for cyber cheating, including digital arrest and investment fraud. The operation, running since 2021, involved making fraudulent calls through VoIP from countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Iran, Iraq, Vietnam, Cambodia, China, and Hong Kong. These international calls were routed through servers in Germany and then to a server located in a building near PERD centre in Thaltej. 'The choice of Ahmedabad city as a hub was due to the city's STD '79' prefix, which usedto create an impression that the calls were local mobile numbers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trading CFD dengan Teknologi dan Kecepatan Lebih Baik IC Markets Mendaftar Undo They planned to expand similar operations to Indore and Bangalore,' said a senior police official. 'The two suspects were in contact with Cindy Wan, their Chinese associate,who had instructed them to provide certain services. They are also linked to criminal gangs operating in Thailand, Malaysia, Iran, and Iraq,' said cyber crime DCP Lavina Sinha. The criminals used Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) lines for VoIP calls, initially purchasing 500 sessions and planning to expand. After a tip off from the Gujarat ATS, a raid was at the Thaltej building where three servers were located. Assistant police commissioner H S Makadia and inspector J P Thakor, along with their teams, used technical and human intelligence to identify the suspects. A company for this operation was established by Kumar and Taruna Wadhwa. They initially had 1500 call lines and later added two more, allowing for up to 4500 simultaneous calls. This meant making around 65,000 calls daily between April 20 and 24 targeting people across India. Kumar had a previous visa fraud case against him in Karnal in Haryana. His accomplice Anubhav Gupta from Dehradun, provided technical support. Gupta was earlier booked for a similar crime in Sonipat, from which he was bailed in March 2023.
Time of India
18-05-2025
- Time of India
Manipur cracks whip on extortion rackets, 350 ultras held in 3mths
PTI photo IMPHAL/NEW DELHI: Security forces in Manipur have arrested more than 350 insurgents during intensified crackdown on extortion rackets that have taken an unusual turn, with groups mainly from the Valley now demanding money to resolve matrimonial disputes, along with traditional targets like property and 'cuts' in govt tenders, officials said on Sunday. The insurgents were picked from mid-Feb this year after the imposition of President's rule in the state. A clear instruction has been issued by the governor's administration to the general public to report any extortion attempts to police or face legal consequences for aiding the insurgents. The officials said investigations against the more than 350 people arrested in the crackdown indicate that insurgent groups, feeling the pressure from security forces post-President's rule, are becoming more desperate for funds and more brazen in their methods. The majority of insurgents have been nabbed from Imphal East, followed by Imphal West in the valley. It's just about money, and for that, they settle personal scores, family feuds and even matrimonial disputes. If you have a problem, and you have the right connections, they become your 'solution' but for a price, of course, the officials said. Recently, a person codenamed 'Tiger' was picked up from Imphal East by Manipur police while he was busy settling a matrimonial dispute with family members of a bride and groom, the officials said. Later, he was identified as Laishram Ramesh Singh, belonging to the banned United National Liberation Front (UNLF). During preliminary verification, he told the police that he joined the organisation in Sept 2024 and is presently working in its 'finance section'. The officials said he confessed to being involved in extortion activities by serving monetary demands and threats and by collecting money from government officials located in and around the Imphal area, besides collecting 'cuts' from business houses who had been allotted various government tenders. Two mobile handsets and Rs 21,50,000 of extortion money were recovered from him. The officials said the insurgent groups were exploiting technology and one of the tactics involved obtaining SIM cards with false documentation from any northeastern state and using them to make Voice over Internet Protocol calls routed through Wi-Fi networks.
Hindustan Times
18-05-2025
- Hindustan Times
More than 350 insurgents nabbed in Manipur; extortion rackets target marriage and property disputes
Imphal/New Delhi, Security forces in Manipur have arrested more than 350 insurgents during intensified crackdown on extortion rackets that have taken an unusual turn, with groups mainly from the Valley now demanding money to resolve matrimonial disputes, along with traditional targets like property and "cuts" in government tenders, officials said on Sunday. These insurgents were picked from mid-February this year after the imposition of President's rule in the state. A clear instruction has been issued by the governor's administration to the general public to report any extortion attempts to the police or face legal consequences for aiding insurgents. The officials said that investigations against the more than 350 people arrested in the crackdown indicate that insurgent groups, feeling the pressure from security forces post-President's rule, are becoming more desperate for funds and more brazen in their methods. The majority of insurgents have been nabbed from Imphal East, followed by Imphal West in the valley. It's just about money, and for that, they settle personal scores, family feuds and even matrimonial disputes. If you have a problem, and you have the right connections, they become your 'solution' but for a price, of course, the officials said. Recently, a person codenamed 'Tiger' was picked up from Imphal East by Manipur police while he was busy settling a matrimonial dispute with family members of a bride and groom, the officials said. Later, he was identified as Laishram Ramesh Singh, belonging to the banned United National Liberation Front . During preliminary verification, he told the police that he joined the organisation in September 2024 and is presently working in its "finance section". The officials claimed that he confessed to being involved in extortion activities by serving monetary demands and threats and by collecting money from government officials located in and around the Imphal area, besides collecting "cuts" from business houses who had been allotted various government tenders. Two mobile handsets and ₹21,50,000 of extortion money were recovered from him. The officials said the insurgent groups were continuously evolving and exploiting technology and one of the tactics involved obtaining SIM cards with false documentation from any northeastern state and using them to make Voice over Internet Protocol calls routed through Wi-Fi networks on WhatsApp, Telegram, etc. The victims would receive a call, seemingly from across the border, and be given a code. They were then instructed to hand over the demanded money to whoever presented that code, the officials said. In some of the instances, some shady civil society groups were involved in the collection of extortion amounts that were subsequently passed on to the insurgent groups after some cuts, the officials said. President's rule was imposed in the northeastern state in February this year under Article 356, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, a move meant to bring order in the state hit by ethnic strife. But the path to peace was proving to be a treacherous one, said an official and reasoned that the immediate trigger may have been the escalating violence between the Valley-based Meitei community and the Hill-based Kuki-Zo groups but beneath the surface there was a more insidious problem the rampant extortion by insurgent groups, both Meitei and Kuki, that had plagued Manipur for years. The Assam Rifles, which is also an important pillar of the law and order machinery in Manipur, has arrested 77 such insurgents indulging in extortion, including seven from Hill-based groups from Churachandpur. The officials said that the extortion was mainly being carried out by the cadres of the banned UNLF, People's Liberation Army , Kanglei Yawol Kanba Lup and People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak in the state. These near-dormant Meitei groups saw resurgence during the turmoil that rocked the state in May 2023. They said that, at present, the UNLF has a cadre strength of 530, followed by PLA with 450, and KYKL with 25, who are active within the groups of the majority community. While the UNLF has in the past been largely involved in extortion, targeting contractors and businessmen, the PLA, which initially took shape under the name of 'Polei', the ancient name of Manipur, had an aim to "liberate Manipur" and establish an independent Meitei land in Imphal valley. The KYKL, which runs on extortion and openly supports other terror groups, is considered a mercenary group with no ideology and cadres mainly drawn from criminals and drug addicts. The PREPAK, which has been banned by the government for its secessionist ideology of so-called liberation of Manipur and whose funding mainly comes from extortion of businessmen, especially pharmacies, indulged mainly in drug trafficking and smuggling. This terror group is also involved in extortion on behalf of the PLA and the UNLF and passes the amount after retaining a share. Among the Kuki-based groups indulging in extortion and drugs are Chin Kuki Mizo Army and Chin Kuki Liberation Army .
