A Connecticut man whose parents were kidnapped after he took part in a $245 million Bitcoin theft has pleaded guilty to fraud and money laundering conspiracy charges and has agreed to testify against his co-defendants, according to court documents that were unsealed this week. Veer Chetal, 19, from Danbury, Connecticut, was one of three men charged with stealing 4,100 Bitcoins from a victim in Washington, D.C., in an elaborate online scam last August. The trio lived large after the heist, spending millions of dollars on cars, jewelry, rental mansions and nightclub parties, prosecutors say. A week after the theft, Chetal’s parents were assaulted and kidnapped briefly in Danbury in a failed ransom plot aimed at Chetal, who the attackers believed had a large amount of cryptocurrency, authorities said. Chetal’s criminal case was unsealed on Monday in federal court in Washington, revealing his guilty pleas in November and his agreement to cooperate with federal authorities investigating the Bitcoin theft. It also revealed new allegations that he was involved in about 50 similar thefts that raked in another $3 million between November 2023 and September 2024. Another man charged in the Bitcoin theft, Malone Lam, was also among 13 people indicted by a federal grand jury in May in an alleged online racketeering conspiracy involving cryptocurrency thefts across the U.S. and overseas that netted more than $260 million, including the $245 million Bitcoin theft. Chetal is facing 19 to 24 years in prison, a fine between $50,000 and $500,000 and restitution to the victim that has yet to be determined, according federal sentencing guidelines and his plea agreement. His lawyer, David Weinstein, declined to comment, saying Chetal’s case is still pending. In September, federal agents with a search warrant raided Chetal’s apartment in Brunswick, New Jersey, and his parents’ home in Danbury in connection with the $245 million Bitcoin heist. Authorities said they found more than $500,000 in cash, expensive jewelry and watches and high-end clothing. Federal agents also said Chetal had $39 million worth of cryptocurrency that he turned over to investigators. Authorities alleged Chetal, Lam and Jeandiel Serrano were involved in online “social engineering” attacks against cryptocurrency holders. Lam would send victims alerts about unauthorized attempts to access their crypto accounts, while the others would call the victims posing as representatives from well-known companies like Google and Yahoo and gain access to their accounts, authorities said. Messages seeking comment were left with lawyers for Lam and Serrano on Friday. A week after the theft, six Florida men were accused of kidnapping Chetal’s parents in broad daylight in Danbury. One of them crashed a car into the parents’ Lamborghini, while others pulled up in a van, police said. The attackers forced the couple out of their vehicle, beat them, put them in the van and tied them up, police said. The plot was foiled, and the attackers were arrested quickly because there were eyewitnesses who immediately called police, and an off-duty FBI agent happened to be driving by at the time of the kidnapping, authorities said. Federal agents said a seventh man who was later arrested in connection with the kidnapping had previously gotten into a dispute with Chetal that turned physical at a Miami nightclub. The attack on the couple is part of an increasing trend worldwide in robbers using violence to steal cryptocurrency. Chetal, who was attending Rutgers University in New Jersey at the time of the $245 million theft and later withdrew, was born in India and came to the U.S. with his family when he was 4 years old in 2010, according to court documents. His father was granted a foreign worker’s visa, and his wife and children obtained related dependent visas. Federal authorities said Chetal could face deportation as a result of the criminal case. Authorities say Chetal’s father lost his job at Morgan Stanley because of the kidnapping and his son’s connection to it. Chetal was initially released from federal custody on his own recognizance. But a judge ordered him detained until trial earlier this year after federal prosecutors said they discovered Chetal was involved in another crypto theft worth $2 million in October that he didn’t tell them about, after he had begun cooperating with federal authorities.

Ah, the Indian summer! The air can feel thick and heavy, making us sticky and uncomfortable. Selecting between a humidifier and a dehumidifier can feel like navigating a maze. Let’s explore which of these devices might be your best friend during those hot, humid months.Humidifier vs. Dehumidifier for Indian summers: Finding your comfort zoneThat sticky Indian summer air poses a key question. Should we add or remove moisture? High humidity slows sweat evaporation, making us feel sluggish and prone to heatstroke. It’s also a breeding ground for mould and allergens. Too much dryness in the air can make your skin and throat feel uncomfortable. That’s why the right level of humidity matters. In hot and sticky summers, a dehumidifier helps reduce excess moisture. But in dry weather or cooler months, a humidifier can bring back comfort by adding moisture to the air.How does humidity affect air conditioners and refrigerators in Indian summers, and how can a dehumidifier help?High humidity makes air conditioners and refrigerators work harder, using more energy to cool the air and manage moisture. This can lower efficiency and increase electricity bills. A dehumidifier helps by removing excess moisture, easing the load on both appliances. As a result, they cool more effectively, consume less power, and last longer in humid Indian summer conditions.Why does Indian summer humidity make humidifiers or dehumidifiers necessary?India’s summer isn’t the same everywhere, is it? While coastal regions get hot and sticky, places with constant air conditioning often feel dry indoors. That’s where a humidifier or dehumidifier comes in. Depending on where you live, either can help you stay comfortable, breathe easier, and keep your indoor air just right all through the season. It’s all about finding the right balance for your space.What to look for in a humidifier or dehumidifier for Indian summer use?Humidity levels in India differ from place to place, especially in summer. Coastal regions face high moisture, making the heat feel worse, while long AC use can cause dryness indoors. Dehumidifiers help reduce dampness, and humidifiers add moisture when needed. Knowing your area’s weather can help you choose the right appliance for better comfort and well-being at home.

Work isn’t slowing down, and your laptop shouldn’t either. You need something that boots up fast, runs smoother than your morning coffee and doesn’t crash when you open 10 apps at once. That’s where this list of the 10 best laptops for working professionals comes in handy. You might be juggling video calls, handling spreadsheets, or firing off urgent proposals, these laptops are built to match your pace. Our PicksBEST OVERALLVALUE FOR MONEYFAQsProductRatingPriceBEST OVERALLApple MacBook Air Laptop: Apple M1 chip, 13.3-inch/33.74 cm Retina Display, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage, Backlit Keyboard, FaceTime HD Camera, Touch ID. Works with iPhone/iPad; Space GreyView DetailsHP 14s Core i3 12th Gen (8GB RAM/512GB SSD/FHD/14 (35.6 cm)/ Windows 11/ MS Office 21/Backlit Keyboard/Silver/1.46kg) dq5138TU LaptopView DetailsAcer [SmartChoice Aspire Lite AMD Ryzen 5-5625U Premium Thin and Light Laptop (16 GB RAM/512 GB SSD/Windows 11 Home) AL15-41, 39.62 cm (15.6″) Full HD Display, Metal Body, Steel Gray, 1.59 KGView DetailsVALUE FOR MONEYDell Inspiron 3530 13th Gen Laptop, Intel Core i3-1305U, 8GB, 512GB SSD, 15.6″ (39.62cm) FHD AG 120Hz 250 nits Display, Windows 11 + MSO’21 & McAfee 15 Month, Platinum Silver, Thin & Light- 1.62kgView DetailsDell Vostro 15-3520 Laptop – 15.6″ FHD 1920×1080, 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB, Standard Keyboard, Win 11 + Office H&S 2021, Carbon Black, 1 Year Onsite Hardware Service, 1.69 KgView DetailsView MoreSome of these best laptops for professionals are super light and easy to carry, perfect for those always on the move. In addition, there are other models that comes with powerful processors. If all the tech terms confuse you, don’t worry. We’ve made things easy. Just scroll down and find the one that fits your work style.The MacBook Air remains one of the best laptops for professionals, offering an outstanding combination of portability, reliability, and longevity for daily computing demands. Its exceptional battery life, often extending beyond a full workday on a single charge, makes it ideal for professionals on the go. The powerful M1 chip delivers consistently snappy performance, effortlessly handling routine tasks like web Browse, email, and even light photo editing. Professionals will appreciate the sharp and vibrant Retina display, which ensures clarity and rich detail for all visual content.Reasons to buyIncredible battery life (up to 18 hours)Fast and efficient M1 chipBeautiful 13.3-inch Retina displayReason to avoidLimited 256GB of storageClick Here to BuyApple MacBook Air Laptop: Apple M1 chip, 13.3-inch/33.74 cm Retina Display, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage, Backlit Keyboard, FaceTime HD Camera, Touch ID. Works with iPhone/iPad; Space GreyWhat are buyers saying on Amazon?The MacBook Air M1 is loved by buyers for its speed, reliability, and great value. It handles tasks like video editing and coding with ease.The MacBook Air is an ideal pick for users who value easy portability, extended battery performance, and the intuitive, interconnected world of Apple’s ecosystem.The HP 14s is a compact, lightweight choice among the 10 best laptops for working professionals. It runs on an Intel Core i3-1215U processor, with 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD for smooth multitasking and quick performance. The 14-inch Full HD micro-edge display offers clear visuals, and the backlit keyboard adds convenience in low light. With a 41Wh battery that lasts up to 9 hours and HP Fast Charge boosting it to 50% in just 45 minutes, it’s a reliable pick for everyday work.Reasons to buyLightweight and portable designFast SSD storage for quicker boot-upsReason to avoidNot ideal for heavy gaming or video editingClick Here to BuyHP 14s Core i3 12th Gen (8GB RAM/512GB SSD/FHD/14 (35.6 cm)/ Windows 11/ MS Office 21/Backlit Keyboard/Silver/1.46kg) dq5138TU LaptopWhat are buyers saying on Amazon?Buyers like its speed, display, and portability, but share mixed reviews on battery, performance consistency, and overall build quality.The HP 14s is perfect for professionals and frequent travellers who need a compact, efficient, and stylish laptop.The Acer Aspire Lite (AL15-41) stands out as one of the best laptops for working professionals seeking performance and portability. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 5-5625U Hexa-Core processor, it pairs 16GB DDR4 RAM with a 512GB SSD for fast multitasking. The 15.6-inch Full HD display with slim bezels delivers crisp visuals, while the sturdy metal body gives it a sleek, premium look. AMD Radeon Graphics handles everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and light editing smoothly. With a full-size keyboard, numeric keypad, and multiple ports including USB-C, this laptop is both practical and efficient for work and daily use.Reasons to buyAMD Ryzen 5 processor for fast performancePremium metal body for durabilityReason to avoidLimited high-speed USB portsClick Here to BuyAcer [SmartChoice Aspire Lite AMD Ryzen 5-5625U Premium Thin and Light Laptop (16 GB RAM/512 GB SSD/Windows 11 Home) AL15-41, 39.62 cm (15.6″) Full HD Display, Metal Body, Steel Gray, 1.59 KGWhat are buyers saying on Amazon?Buyers appreciate its speed and 4K editing capability but report inconsistent build, battery, keyboard issues, and poor sound quality.Choose this if you are seeking a laptop with strong performance, ample storage, and a sleek design.The Dell Vostro 15 3520 is designed for professionals, freelancers, and remote workers who need a dependable and lightweight laptop. It runs on a 12th Gen Intel Core i3-1215U processor with 8GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, delivering fast and efficient performance for daily tasks. The 15.6-inch Full HD display offers crisp visuals, and at just 1.69kg, it’s easy to carry wherever work takes you. Pre-installed with Windows 11 Home and 12 months of McAfee LiveSafe, it ensures a secure and seamless working experience.Reasons to buyPre-installed Windows 11 and McAfee securityClick Here to BuyDell Inspiron 3530 13th Gen Laptop, Intel Core i3-1305U, 8GB, 512GB SSD, 15.6″ (39.62cm) FHD AG 120Hz 250 nits Display, Windows 11 + MSO’21 & McAfee 15 Month, Platinum Silver, Thin & Light- 1.62kgWhat are buyers saying on Amazon?Buyers appreciate the build and overall value, but report issues with heating, slow performance, short battery life, and unreliable long-term functionality.Offering a balance of performance, storage, and portability, this laptop ideal for everyday office tasks, browsing, and video calls on the go.If you’re looking for one of the best laptops for working professionals that delivers both performance and practicality, this Dell 15 Thin & Light model is worth considering. It runs on the efficient 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U processor, paired with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD to keep things running smoothly. The 15.6-inch Full HD screen offers a clear and comfortable viewing experience for work or leisure. It also includes Windows 11, Office 2021, and a 15-month McAfee subscription pre-installed. The spill-resistant keyboard adds everyday resilience, making it ideal for professionals who work long hours.Reasons to buy12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U processorSpill-resistant keyboard15.6-inch FHD displayReason to avoidBuild quality might not feel as premium as some higher-end laptopsClick Here to BuyDell Vostro 15-3520 Laptop – 15.6″ FHD 1920×1080, 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB, Standard Keyboard, Win 11 + Office H&S 2021, Carbon Black, 1 Year Onsite Hardware Service, 1.69 KgWhat are buyers saying on Amazon?Buyers say the laptop performs well for daily tasks and is good value, but report heating, weak build, and poor battery life.Choose this Dell 15 Thin & Light Laptop for smooth everyday use, fast performance, and handy extras like a spill-resistant keyboard and great display.The Lenovo ThinkBook 16 is built for professionals who value performance and reliability. With its AMD Ryzen 7 7730U processor, this business laptop easily handles multitasking, meetings, and content creation. The 16-inch WUXGA screen offers ample workspace, while 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD ensure smooth, responsive operation. Pre-loaded with Windows 11 and Office 2021, it’s ready out of the box. Sturdy and practical, this laptop is ideal for those who want productivity without compromise.Reasons to buyComfortable 16-inch WUXGA displayStrong performance with the AMD Ryzen 7Durable build qualityReason to avoidBattery life, while decent, may not be exceptionalClick Here to BuyLenovo Thinkbook 16 AMD Ryzen 7 16″ WUXGA IPS Antiglare 300 NITS Thin and Light Laptop (16GB Ram/512GB SSD/Windows 11 Home/Fpr/Office 2021/Arctic Grey/1 Year Onsite/1.7 Kg), 21KKA0G1INWhat are buyers saying on Amazon?Buyers appreciate the laptop’s vibrant 16-inch display, fast fingerprint sensor, and smooth performance with Ryzen 5. However, some mention low speaker volume and an average camera experience.Go for this laptop if you need a reliable, high-performing machine built for productivity, multitasking, and daily business use.The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 is a smart pick for professionals and students looking for a reliable, everyday laptop. Powered by the 12th Gen Intel Core i3 processor, it delivers solid performance for multitasking and daily tasks. The 15.6-inch Full HD display with anti-glare technology makes long hours easier on the eyes. With 8GB RAM (expandable to 16GB) and a fast 512GB SSD, it offers responsive use and ample storage. Pre-installed Office 2021 and a 3-month Xbox Game Pass add more value, making it suitable for both work and play. Reasons to buy12th Gen processorWebcam with privacy shutterReason to avoidNot the best display qualityClick Here to BuyLenovo IdeaPad Slim 3, Intel Core i3, 12th Gen, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, FHD, 15.6″/39.62cm, Windows 11, Office Home 2024, Arctic Grey, 1.63Kg, 82RK01ABIN, Intel UHD Graphics, 1Yr ADP Free LaptopWhat are buyers saying on Amazon?Buyers value its smooth performance and quick charging support. However, some feel the TN panel limits the screen’s viewing angles and clarity.Choose this for its updated processor, fast charging, and privacy-focused features that make it a smart option for work-from-home use.The HP 15s is an ideal everyday laptop powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core i3 processor. It packs 8GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, offering fast boot times and smooth performance. Its 15.6-inch Full HD screen comes with anti-glare technology, making long hours of use easier on the eyes. With Windows 11 and MS Office 2021 pre-installed, it’s ready for work or study. Dual speakers and an HD camera round out its practical features.SpecificationsGraphicsIntel UHD GraphicsReasons to buyFast 12th Gen processorGood display and buildReason to avoidSlightly heavier than other modelsClick Here to BuyHP 15s, 12th Gen Intel Core i3-1215 Laptop (8GB RAM, 512GB SSD), Anti-Glare, 15.6″/39.6cm, FHD, Win 11, MS Office 2021, Silver, 1.69Kg, Intel UHD Graphics, HD Camera, Dual Speakers, fy5003TUWhat are buyers saying on Amazon?Buyers like its multitasking performance and vibrant display, though many wish it included a backlit keyboard for better night-time use.Pick this for its latest-gen i3 chip, fast SSD storage, and reliable performance suitable for work, study, or everyday use.The ASUS Vivobook Go 15 is among the best laptops for working professionals who need dependable everyday performance. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 7520U processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD, it handles multitasking with ease. Its 15.6-inch FHD anti-glare screen and lightweight design make it great for portability. Pre-installed Windows 11 and Office 2021 add value, making this thin and light laptop a solid pick for work, learning, or casual use.SpecificationsProcessorAMD Ryzen 5 7520UDisplay15.6″ FHD, Anti-glareReasons to buyGreat performance for priceLightweight and portableReason to avoidBasic designClick Here to BuyASUS Vivobook Go 15 (2023), AMD Ryzen 5 7520U, Thin & Light Laptop,15.6″ (39.62 cm) FHD, (16GB/512GB SSD/Windows 11/Office 2021/Alexa Built-in/Mixed Black/1.63 kg), E1504FA-NJ542WSWhat are buyers saying on Amazon?Buyers like the laptop’s performance for everyday office tasks and find the build decent, though many feel the screen quality could be much better.Select this best laptop for everyday efficiency, lightweight comfort, and a complete software package right from the start.Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G6 is among the sought after laptops for professionals. It’s powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 7530U processor with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD, delivering fast, responsive performance. The 16-inch WUXGA display, anti-glare screen, and aluminium body provide durability and clear visuals. Pre-installed with Windows 11 and Office 2021, it’s perfect for multitasking, presentations, or hybrid work environments.SpecificationsProcessorAMD Ryzen 5 7530UStorage512GB SSD, expandableGraphicsIntegrated AMD RadeonPortsUSB-C, HDMI, Ethernet, SD Card ReaderBattery LifeUp to 9.2 hoursReasons to buyMilitary-grade tested buildLarge display with good brightnessReason to avoidSlightly bulkyClick Here to BuyLenovo Thinkbook 16 G6 AMD Ryzen 5 16″ Wuxga IPS Antiglare 300 NITS Thin and Light Laptop (16GB RAM/512GB SSD/Windows 11 Home/Fingerprint/Office 2021/Arctic Grey/1 Year Onsite/1.7 Kg), 21KKA07RINWhat are buyers saying on Amazon?Buyers like the large display, fast processor, and value pricing, though some mention low audio output and average camera performance.Pick this best laptop for its sturdy build, big display, and reliable performance in office work, study, and everyday multitasking.What kind of processor is best for working professionals?A laptop with at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 is ideal. These processors offer a balance of speed and efficiency. For tasks like video editing or software development, an i7 or Ryzen 7 provides better performance without slowing down under heavy workloads.Should I choose SSD or HDD for professional use?An SSD is highly recommended. It loads files and software much faster than an HDD and improves overall system responsiveness. For working professionals, this translates to better productivity, quicker startups, and less waiting time during multitasking or booting heavy software.Are business laptops different from regular laptops?Business laptops often offer better build quality, longer warranties, enhanced security (like TPM or fingerprint readers), and professional software support. They’re designed for reliability and long hours of use, making them better suited for demanding work environments.Factors to consider before buying the best laptops for working professionals:Processor: Aim for at least Intel i5/Ryzen 5 or higher.RAM: 8GB minimum; 16GB recommended for multitaskers.Storage: SSD is preferred over HDD for speed and reliability.Battery Life: Look for 7+ hours and fast-charging support.Display: A Full HD screen with good brightness and anti-glare is ideal.Portability: Consider weight and thickness if you travel often.Keyboard & Build: Backlit keyboard and sturdy build improve long-term comfort.Security Features: Fingerprint reader, TPM chip, or webcam shutter for added privacy.Connectivity: USB-C, HDMI, and Wi-Fi 6 support are useful.Top 3 features of the best laptops for working professionals10 best laptops for working professionalsMemory                   Screen Size                Special FeatureApple MacBook Air Laptop8GB/256GB13 inchFaceTime HD Camera, Touch IDHP 14s Core i3 12th Gen8GB/512GB14 inchPortable, Anti Glare Screen, Micro Edge DisplayAcer Aspire Lite 5625U16GB/512GB15.6 inchHD Audio, Light Weight, Numeric KeypadDell Inspiron 3530 13th Gen Laptop8GB/512GB15.6 inchFHD IPS displayDell Vostro 15-3520 Laptop16GB/512GB15.6 inchExpress ChargeLenovo Thinkbook 16 AMD Ryzen 716GB/512GB16 inchFingerprint Reader, HD Audio, LightweightLenovo IdeaPad Slim 38GB/512GB15.6 inchIntel UHD GraphicsHP 15s 1215U8GB/512GB15.6 inchFHD, Backlit Keyboard, Micro-Edge Display, Anti-GlareASUS Vivobook Go 1516GB/512GB15.6 inchAnti Glare CoatingLenovo Thinkbook 16 G6 AMD Ryzen 5 1616GB/512GB16 inchAntiglare 300 NITS Thin and Light LaptopSimilar articles for you:Best budget laptops June 2025: Top 10 options from HP, Dell and more for productivity on a budgetBest Lenovo laptops in 2025 for gamers, professionals and creators who need top performance and speedBest HP thin laptops that deliver powerful performance in a compact size: Expert recommendations₹40,000: Top thin and light laptops with long battery life”>Best Asus laptops under ₹40,000: Top thin and light laptops with long battery lifeDisclaimer: Mint has an affiliate marketing partnership, which means we may get some commission on purchases you make through the retailer sites links provided. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, which is free from any bias or marketing pitch. We strive to provide accurate and unbiased information to help you make informed decisions. We recommend verifying details with the retailer before making a purchase.