Technology

Microsoft Wins Landmark Judgement for Trademark Infringement Against Call Scammers; Awarded INR 75 Lakh in damages & costs

Published

1 year ago

January 31, 2025

GURUGRAM, India, Jan. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In a first-of-its-kind ruling in India, the Commercial Court at Gurugram delivered a decisive blow against tech fraud and trademark infringement, awarding exemplary and punitive damages to Microsoft Corporation (Microsoft), a global tech leader. The Court held Retnec Solutions Private Limited (Retnec) and its collaborators liable for unlawfully misusing MICROSOFT, a well-known trademark, for running a large-scale tech scam. Microsoft was represented by Prashant Gupta and Karan Singh of K&S Partners, a leading Intellectual Property law firm, who successfully argued the case. The judgment not only vindicates Microsoft’s rights but also sets a precedent for holding perpetrators accountable, particularly in the digital age where such scams are prevalent.

Retnec operated a fraudulent call centre in Gurugram, deceiving unsuspecting consumers under the guise of providing technical support services. They used misleading ‘pop-up’ messages on consumers’ screens and/or cold calls, presenting themselves as ‘Microsoft Certified Technicians’. Victims from several countries, including the United States of America and Canada, were tricked into believing that their computers were compromised by malware or hackers, prompting them to pay for fictitious services and counterfeit antivirus software.

In November 2018, Microsoft filed a First Information Report (FIR) with the local police station against Retnec. A police raid at the premises of Retnec uncovered incriminating evidence such as computer systems, hard disks and notepad files containing scripts for fraudulent calls. These documents detailed phone numbers linked to foreign entities, scripts used for deceiving victims, among others. The police also found images of cheques and excel sheets setting out names of various entities, along with payment records. Retnec directors, Gaurav Sahaye and Akshay Anand were arrested.

Microsoft filed a suit against Retnec, its directors and other foreign entities alleging that Retnec and its directors conspired with foreign entities, including Skyfill Business Solutions LLC and Apzee Technologies LLC, to perpetuate this scam.

Court Ruling and Damages

The Court held that Retnec’s impersonation of personnel from the customer support services of MICROSOFT to deceive customers constituted a clear violation of Microsoft’s intellectual property rights and damaged its reputation. Consequently, the Court restrained the defendants from using the MICROSOFT trademark or any deceptively similar marks.

More importantly, the Court awarded exemplary and punitive damages along with legal costs, totalling INR 75,00,000 to Microsoft. Retnec and its directors were held jointly and severally liable for INR 50,00,000, while Skyfill Business Solutions LLC and Apzee Technologies LLC were ordered to pay INR 5,00,000. The Court also ordered the defendants to bear Microsoft’s legal costs, awarding an additional INR 20, 65,000.

Industry Reactions

Prashant Gupta, Litigation Partner at K&S Partners, who represented Microsoft, emphasized the ruling’s importance:

“This judgment serves as a strong deterrent against the growing menace of tech scams. Fraudsters often exploit trusted brand names like Microsoft to prey on unsuspecting consumers, causing financial and emotional harm. The Court’s decision underscores its readiness to tackle such schemes with an ‘iron hand,’ ensuring that intellectual property laws are enforced with full vigour.”

Steven Masada, Assistant General Counsel & Worldwide Lead, Digital Crimes Unit, Microsoft, welcomed the ruling, stating:

“This landmark judgment by the Gurugram Commercial Court is a significant victory in our ongoing battle against tech fraud and trademark infringement. Over the years, Microsoft’s Digital Crimes Unit (DCU) has significantly evolved its collaboration with law enforcement agencies worldwide. We deeply appreciate the dedication of the law firm K&S Partners, the courts in India, and the law enforcement agencies involved in this case. By sharing threat intelligence and leveraging our combined resources, we aim to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of trusted brand names like Microsoft.”

Lawyers Involved:

Prashant Gupta – Litigation Partner, K&S Partners – LinkedIn ProfileKaran Singh – Associate, K&S Partners – LinkedIn Profile

About K&S Partners

Founded in 1994, K&S Partners is a leading Indian intellectual property law firm. The award-winning law firm supports clients from around the world, including Fortune 500 companies, in all forms of intellectual property rights, and related matters.

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Technology

Haloid Solutions Expands Access to Radio Equipment by Offering Flexible Financing and Leasing Solutions Named HaloidFLEX

Published

2 hours ago

April 18, 2026

NEW YORK, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As part of Haloid Solutions’ long-term commitment to helping businesses and municipalities acquire critical communications equipment despite budgetary constraints, Haloid now offers specialized financing and leasing programs through its HaloidFLEX program.

Designed to ensure that companies and governments have the equipment they need without costly capital expenditures outlays, HaloidFLEX offers financing for equipment purchased directly from manufacturers or local radio dealers. HaloidFLEX financing offers zero percent and low-interest options as well as predictable monthly payments for qualified buyers. HaloidFLEX clients can even opt to incorporate extended support services and protections into their financing to prepare for accidents, theft, or equipment losses. This gives companies peace of mind with one low monthly payment.

For organizations that don’t want or need to own equipment long-term, the HaloidFLEX leasing program offers similar benefits with potential tax advantages. Companies can lease brand new equipment and upgrade or return it at lease-end as needed. For companies seeking flexible options – or those that are interested in upgrading to the latest technology as it becomes available – leasing makes perfect sense.

One of the added benefits of each program is that HaloidFLEX allows clients to bundle services and protections that would normally be billed separately. Accidental damage, theft, and loss protections can be put in place, so that there’s never a lapse in communication if a radio fails. Extended warranties are also available upon request, so companies can customize their financing and protection to fit their budget and safeguard their equipment simultaneously.

According to a Haloid Solutions spokesperson, “Bundling expenses simply makes sense. It reduces the need for multiple policies and flexes with organizations to ensure critical communication equipment is available when needed while guaranteeing that the company’s investment is protected for the life of the equipment.”

HaloidFLEX financing and leasing programs are available to qualified businesses and municipalities nationwide. To learn more or request a customized quote, visit HaloidSolutions.com.

About Haloid Solutions

Haloid Solutions is the go-to resource for U.S. businesses and municipalities in search of financing and leasing for two-way radios, walkie talkies, communications equipment, accessories, and services. Focused on reliability, affordability, and performance, Haloid strives to equip professionals in all communication-based industries with the resources they need most.

For more information about Haloid Solutions, or details about the HaloidFLEX financing or leasing programs, please visit https://haloidsolutions.com/collections/lmr-radio-financing-and-leasing-and-subscription-low-cost-payment-options-for-2-way-radio-equipment or contact us on our website.

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SOURCE HALOID SOLUTIONS

Technology

CAS Holdings Appoints Patrick McDermott as Chief Executive Officer

Published

3 hours ago

April 18, 2026

Leadership Transition Positions CAS Holdings for Continued Growth and Customer-Focused Innovation

FRANKLIN, Mass., April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CAS Holdings, a leader in industrial automation distribution, engineering, and integration, is pleased to announce that Patrick McDermott has been named Chief Executive Officer.

McDermott previously served as President and Chief Revenue Officer, where he played a key role in driving growth across the organization, strengthening customer relationships, and leading teams with a clear focus on execution and results.

In his new role as CEO, McDermott will lead CAS Holdings into its next phase of growth, building on the company’s strong foundation and continued commitment to delivering value to customers, partners, and employees.

“I’m honored to step into the role of CEO at CAS Holdings,” said McDermott. “Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside an incredible team, support our customers, and help drive the growth of our organization. I’m excited to build on that momentum as we move into our next chapter.”

CAS Holdings, through its divisions including iAutomation and RND Automation, delivers a full spectrum of industrial automation solutions – from product distribution and technical support to custom machine building and system integration. Serving OEM machine builders and end-users, the company brings deep expertise in motion control, robotics, and vision, along with value-added capabilities such as kitting, sub-assembly, panel building, and turnkey automation systems, acting as an extension of its customers’ engineering and production teams.

McDermott’s leadership will focus on advancing CAS Holdings’ strategic initiatives, strengthening its market position, and continuing to deliver innovative automation solutions that support customers across a wide range of industries.

“We have a strong foundation, a talented team, and a clear direction. I’m looking forward to what we’ll accomplish together,” McDermott said. “Our focus remains on supporting our customers with responsive, local expertise, strong supplier partnerships, and the engineering and production capabilities they rely on to keep their operations running and growing.”

About Complete Automation Solutions Holdings

Complete Automation Solutions Holdings (CAS Holdings) is dedicated to empowering industrial automation companies, including those in the packaging industry, to achieve optimal efficiency and success. With a diverse portfolio encompassing industrial distribution, panel building and assembly, system integration, and robotics, CAS Holdings provides comprehensive packaging machines and solutions tailored to meet industry needs. The company prioritizes strong partnerships, expert engineering, and innovative solutions, ensuring sustainable practices and continuous improvement. CAS Holdings envisions a future where its transformative automation solutions redefine industry standards and drive growth. Committed to transparency and collaboration, CAS Holdings aims to be the most trusted partner in the automation sector.

Press Contact:

Erika Jacques
508-838-8012
http://www.iautomation.com/

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SOURCE CAS Holdings, Inc.

Technology

Vipboss Marks Earth Day with Renewed Commitment to Green Energy Solutions

Published

4 hours ago

April 18, 2026

NEW YORK, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As Earth Day draws global attention to environmental responsibility, Vipboss, a specialist manufacturer and developer of lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery packs for energy storage and mobility applications, is underscoring its long‑term commitment to sustainable energy practices through its Environmental Advocacy. This advocacy is devoid of ornate language; its inspiration stems from the brand’s unwavering conviction in LiFePO4 batteries as a green energy solution. To align this message with practical action, the brand is also running a themed sales campaign on its official website during April 18th to 30th. It highlights how practical product solutions, rather than abstract concepts, can support cleaner energy use in everyday life.

Across the world, energy consumption patterns are undergoing rapid change. Households, outdoor users, and light‑mobility sectors are increasingly seeking energy systems that are safe, sustainable, and low‑emission. Within this shift, LiFePO4 batteries have emerged as a preferred technology for clean‑energy applications. Their long service life, high safety profile, and absence of cobalt, which is an element associated with higher environmental and ethical risks, position them as a responsible choice in the global transition toward greener power.

LiFePO4 technology forms the foundation of Vipboss’s approach to sustainable energy. Its extended cycle life reduces the frequency of battery replacement, lowering resource consumption and easing the environmental burden associated with disposal. The material’s inherent stability also minimizes the risk of thermal runaway, offering a safer experience in homes, recreational vehicles, and public environments. In practical use cases such as home backup systems, RV travel, and golf‑course operations, LiFePO4 batteries deliver efficient storage and stable output, helping reduce reliance on fossil‑fuel‑based energy sources and supporting lower‑carbon lifestyles.

Vipboss’s environmental advocacy extends beyond the technical advantages of its products. The brand promotes responsible energy use as an integral part of sustainable living, emphasizing that product design and informed application must work together to achieve meaningful environmental outcomes. As a provider of energy solutions for home, travel, and leisure scenarios, Vipboss continues to participate in the long‑term process of green transformation through ongoing technological refinement and product evolution.

Earth Day serves as a reminder that lasting environmental impact is built through small, consistent actions. Looking ahead, Vipboss will continue advancing safer, more durable, and more efficient energy products that support individuals and families in adopting more sustainable energy habits. Through these efforts, the brand aims to contribute enduring value to the wider adoption of clean energy and the collective pursuit of a more sustainable future.

About Vipboss

Vipboss is a specialist in the lithium battery industry, focusing on the research, production, and manufacturing of lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery packs. The company is committed to advancing battery technology with an emphasis on reliable performance, safety, and extended service life. Its mission is to deliver safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible energy solutions that contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

For more information, please visit: https://vipbosspower.com/.

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SOURCE Vipboss