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Truecaller Strengthens Household Security With Family Protection

Swedish communications firm Truecaller has introduced an innovative scam-protection tool that marks a significant evolution from its traditional caller ID service. The newly launched Family Protection feature addresses the increasing complexity of fraud schemes that now target entire households.

Enhanced Multi-User Security

Family Protection enables up to five individuals to join a dedicated family group, with one member designated as the administrator responsible for managing scam-prevention settings. The pilot program is currently available for Android and iOS users in Sweden, Chile, Malaysia, and Kenya. This approach empowers the more digitally savvy family member to safeguard the household by monitoring and controlling scam alerts, thereby easing the burden on less tech-confident relatives.

Robust Functionality in Action

On Android devices, administrators gain access to real-time alerts during suspected scam calls, basic device diagnostics such as battery levels, and the ability to remotely terminate calls identified as fraudulent. This strategic enhancement comes at a time when global scam attempts have surged, particularly in markets with burgeoning first-time smartphone users and among older demographics vulnerable to digital deception.

Tracking a Global Surge in Fraud

The prevalence of scam calls has escalated worldwide, with countries like India reporting a spike in impersonation and multi-step fraud attempts. Truecaller, which boasts a user base exceeding 450 million worldwide, analyzes approximately 63 million scam attempts per day and benefits from a community that contributes to one of the largest databases of phone-based fraud activity. The continuous tracking of these trends underscores the company’s commitment to evolving its defense mechanisms in line with shifting fraud methodologies.

Adapting to a Competitive Landscape

As Truecaller expands its functionality beyond basic caller identification, it faces new challenges—most notably, emerging competitors in key markets such as India. Recent trials of a Caller Name Presentation system by the Indian government exemplify the regulatory and competitive dynamics that require innovative solutions. In response, Truecaller continues to broaden its service portfolio, with plans to roll out the Family Protection feature to additional regions, including India, in early 2026.

Innovative Leadership in Digital Safety

Truecaller CEO Rishit Jhunjhunwala remarked that the initiative is a direct response to the evolving threat landscape. “With Family Protection, one person’s vigilance now strengthens safety for up to five family members,” he explained, emphasizing the company’s objective to extend robust protection seamlessly across households. For users who opt for the Premium Family plan, the benefit extends to an ad-free experience and enhanced spam defense, including the automatic rejection of high-risk calls.

This strategic pivot not only reinforces Truecaller’s market position as a leader in caller identification but also highlights its adaptive approach to digital security in an era marked by sophisticated fraud. With a blend of technology and user empowerment, Truecaller is setting new standards for household security in the digital age.

Cyprus Paves The Way To Energy Autonomy Through Renewable Innovation

Renowned energy expert Michalis Drakoudis has presented a compelling case that Cyprus can achieve full energy independence by leveraging renewable resources. A new study, developed under the banner of the Energy Democracy initiative, demonstrates that the island nation can meet 93.5% of its annual electricity demand solely through renewables.

Data-Driven Analysis And Infrastructure Requirements

The study, based on thousands of hourly production, demand, and storage balance calculations for 2024, highlights that rooftop photovoltaic systems combined with centralized energy storage can deliver the bulk of Cyprus’ electrical needs. An additional 3,000 MW of rooftop solar installations and 9,100 MWh of energy storage are identified as prerequisites to reach near-total coverage, with the remaining 6.5% supplemented by limited conventional reserve or, eventually, seasonal storage via green hydrogen.

Robust Economic Case And Rapid Payback

The financial implications of this transition are highly attractive. With a total investment requirement of approximately €2.3 billion, current fuel and emission prices suggest a payback period of just 3.4 years. Post payback, the system’s operational costs approach zero, promising a lasting reduction in electricity bills for households and businesses alike, while keeping capital within the Cyprus economy and stimulating job creation.

Utilizing Surplus Energy And Enhancing Energy Democracy

The analysis further indicates that the annual surplus of renewable energy far exceeds any shortfall during periods of low production. This surplus presents significant opportunities beyond electricity supply, including water desalination and the medium-term production of green hydrogen for industrial use and seasonal storage. Meanwhile, existing thermal units would serve as security backups for rare or extreme conditions rather than functioning as the backbone of the system. Notably, the minimal land requirement, just 13 to 14 square kilometers of building rooftops, limits environmental impact and reinforces the transition of citizens from passive energy consumers to proactive energy producers.

Reforming The Electricity Market For Integrated Storage

The study also points out a critical market flaw: the current electricity purchasing model does not facilitate the development of state-run storage systems, which are essential for a small and isolated grid like Cyprus. Drakoudis advocates for a single-buyer model, akin to structures implemented in other small or insular markets, placing a central role in coordinating production, storage, and pricing. This model would streamline operations and further enhance economic efficiency.

A Strategic And Realistic Policy Choice

The central conclusion of the study is unequivocal: achieving energy autonomy for Cyprus is not only technologically feasible but also economically sound. The strategic shift towards renewables promises immediate and long-term benefits for cost of living, economic stability, and social cohesion. As the island positions itself for a future of low-cost, sustainable energy, it sets a benchmark for nations transitioning away from fossil fuels.

The research, with its meticulous analysis and forward-thinking recommendations, calls for decisive policy action to harness the full potential of renewable energy in Cyprus.

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