New Scam Detection Product from FICO and Jersey Telecom Wins Datos Insights Award

FICO® and JT’s Customer Communications Service Scam Signal takes Silver Medal in the Fraud Impact Award for Best Scam and APP Fraud Prevention

BOZEMAN, MT – 20 August, 2024 – FICO (NYSE: FICO)

In the fight against the growing problem of scams, FICO and Jersey Telecom (JT) have produced a powerful solution, which has won an award from Datos Insights, a global advisory firm providing mission-critical insights on technology, regulations, strategy, and operations to the financial services industry. Datos Insights recognized FICO and JT as the winners of the Silver Medal in the Fraud Impact Award for Best Scam and APP (Authorized Push Payment) Fraud Prevention solution. The FICO® Customer Communications Service Scam Signal is now also available in the UK and Spain, with plans to expand to additional markets.

More information: https://datos-insights.com/resources/awards/fraud-aml/

FICO and JT worked with leading UK banks to identify the most relevant telephony signals that indicate an active scam. The FICO Customer Communications Service Scam Signal is the first real-time application of telephony data being used with customer and payment data to tackle the issue of Authorized Push Payment (APP) fraud, where consumers are tricked into making authorized payments to scammers. It enables direct, near real-time intervention with the customer to determine if a payment should proceed.

“This Scam Signal product addresses a significant and growing problem,’’ said Clare Messenger, Head of Mobile Intelligence Solutions at JT. “Authorized Push Payment fraud continues to grow globally and in the UK market losses reported in 2023 reached £460 million.”

To build this solution, JT worked with the GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications) and the UK Mobile Network Operators to access various mobile network insights within a privacy compliant framework that protects personal data. FICO’s analysis found strong correlations between a customer’s mobile phone behavior and the likelihood that a scam is taking place. For example, a customer may be actively coached through security or manipulated by a fraudster into making a payment during a mobile phone conversation.

The Scam Signal uses advanced analysis of real-time network data together with customer and payment data, during live transactions, to effectively detect and mitigate social engineering attempts aimed at deceiving and defrauding account holders. The Scam Signal can incorporate this data from across 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G Volte and Wi-Fi calling for multiple mobile network operators and is currently being extended to support UK landlines.

“The integration of Scam Signal within FICO Customer Communications Service allows banks to present customers with personalised, omni-channel and highly contextualized messages that break the scammer’s spell for high-risk activities,” said Adam Davies, vice president of product management at FICO. These messages can be built into conversation ‘flows’ that respond in real-time to the actions the customer takes. For example, if a customer hesitates or looks to progress a payment, additional messages can be sent, and different options offered, such as suggesting delaying the payment or offering to speak to a fraud prevention specialist.”

Major high street banks in the UK are implementing the product, with the first one to pilot it reporting that they reduced the number of people scammed by 41%, decreased fraud losses from scams by 44% and lowered false positives (payments flagged as fraud that are in fact genuine) by 55%.

FICO Chief Analytics Officer Dr. Scott Zoldi will discuss “Responsible AI: Unleashing the Power of AI for Risk Mitigation in an Ethical Manner” in a fireside chat with Julie Conroy of Datos Insights at the company’s Financial Crime and Cybersecurity Forum in Charlotte, NC, on August 27.

About the Datos Insights Awards

Datos Insights’ annual awards program, Fraud & AML Impact Awards, recognizes innovations leading the industry and pioneering new and disruptive financial crime products and capabilities.

The Datos Insights award winners and finalists were selected based on the following criteria, which were considered when scoring each entry:

  • Level of innovation
  • Competitive advantage
  • Market need
  • Financial crime risk mitigation
  • Impact on customer experience and operational efficiency
  • Integration and scalability
  • Future roadmap

“Organized crime is relentlessly bombarding society with scams, automated bots, synthetic identities, mule activity, and application fraud,” said Chuck Subrt, Fraud & AML Practice Director at Datos Insights. “The financial services industry is doubling down on innovation, automation, and data to tackle this confluence of challenges and risks.”

JT’s Community Giving Brings Real-Time Safety to La Vallette Pools

Vive La Vallette is the latest Guernsey charity to receive support from JT’s Community Giving scheme. JT’s donation of a live webcam, now enables Islanders to access live video footage of sea conditions and local weather at the pools.

Helen Bonner-Morgan, Operations Director at Vive La Vallette, said: ‘Thanks to JT’s sponsorship of the webcam, visitors now have real-time access to the weather and sea conditions allowing them to plan their visits more effectively and arrive at the best times to enjoy the pools. Some pool users have already told us how the live feed helps them to make the most of their lunch time and builds excitement for their swim.
‘We believe it enhances the overall experience, but importantly it also promotes safety by enabling visitors to make informed decisions. Ultimately, the webcam boosts visitor engagement and satisfaction..’

Since the installation, the webcam has received an overwhelmingly positive response from regular visitors. Many appreciate the convenience of being able to see the sea conditions before making the trip, while some parents have also found it helpful for planning family outings.

Helen continued: ‘Feedback has been brilliant and reinforces how technology can enhance the public’s experience of our amenities. We’re very grateful to the JT Community Giving scheme for seeing the potential and supporting this installation.’

La Vallette is a much-loved location, and this new feature further enhances its appeal as a prime destination for locals and tourists alike. With this latest development, Vive La Vallette continues its commitment to providing a thriving community space.

Pip Carpenter, Head of Consumer Markets and Community Partnerships, said: “La Vallette is more than just a historic outdoor bathing pool, it’s a much-loved spot for sea swimming enthusiasts. With the introduction of a live webcam, visitors can now check sea conditions at any time they want, it’s modern technology helping those that love everything about seaside swimming. This digital addition ensures that this beloved local spot remains accessible and safe for year-round enjoyment, preserving its natural beauty while enhancing the experience for everyone.”

JT Community Giving Scheme is open to all registered not-for-profit organisations, schools, and community groups across the Channel Islands, for more information please visit JT Community Giving and to check live footage at the Bathing Pools click here.

Pilot Workshop by JT Helps Reconnect People with the Workforce

JT has successfully concluded a pilot workshop aimed at attracting individuals who have been out of the workforce for an extended period. This initiative highlights JT’s commitment to building a sustainable business while growing a diverse and inclusive culture.

Recognising that those not in education, employment, or training often feel overlooked, JT has taken a proactive approach to dispel the myths and highlight the relevance and transferability of their skills and experience.

The workshop was designed to demonstrate JT’s flexible, inclusive, and accommodating work environment. To achieve this, current employees, particularly those who work part-time, are parents or carers, or have made significant career changes later in life, stepped up to represent the business. These advocates shared their personal experiences, providing attendees with authentic insights into life at JT.

Laura Belo, Head of Human Resources at JT, explained: “We wanted to offer a return-to-work workshop to introduce people to our business, our products and services, values, and our inclusive working practices. While we are very actively engaged with schools and colleges on the island through enrichment workshops, talks, and career fairs, we recognised a gap in our outreach efforts. This workshop was an opportunity to connect with those not in education, employment, or training, understand their needs, and explore how we can help them and benefit from their talents.”

In 2023, only 30% of applicants for positions at JT were female, despite women comprising approximately 50% of the working population. This discrepancy highlighted the need to address misconceptions about working in telecommunications. The workshop, held in collaboration with Back to Work earlier this month, has helped in part to successfully portray real life at JT.

Joanna Baran, Back to Work Recruitment Officer at Business Hub, said: ‘’Our clients found the workshop insightful and enjoyable; it offered valuable guidance for transitioning back to the workplace, and the interactive sessions made the experience both engaging and practical.”

The results of the workshop have been promising, of the applications received since the workshop, 50% of them have already been offered a role at JT, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the initiative in reaching out to and supporting those who have been out of the workforce.

Laura added ‘’By engaging with a broader demographic and being able to let them see for themselves the diverse and supportive environment we have at JT, its given us an additional opportunity to expand our talent pipeline and support our commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. This initiative is a testament to JT’s belief that everyone has valuable skills and experiences to contribute, regardless of their time away from the workforce.

For more information about employment opportunities at JT, please visit our website or contact our HR department.

GSMA Open Gateway Channel Partner

JT Becomes a GSMA Open Gateway Channel Partner

JT has become a GSMA Open Gateway Channel Partner. This prestigious partnership recognises JT’s position as a global leader in fraud and identity solutions and fully supports GSMA’s efforts in combating global fraud and cybercrime.

The GSMA Open Gateway initiative represents a significant shift in the telecoms industry, for the first-time enabling app developers to access global mobile operator networks through standardised network Application Programmable Interfaces (APIs). What’s unique about this framework is it simplifies service integration, which reduces development costs and complexity, spurring innovation.

The initiative benefits the entire mobile ecosystem by providing a single point of access to the world’s largest connectivity platform. With 28 published network APIs, including SIM Swap and Number Verification, it facilitates quicker service deployment across operator networks.

Henry Calvert, Head of Networks at GSMA, said: “GSMA Open Gateway is a framework of common network APIs that provides developers with universal access to operator networks. Supported by mobile network operators representing two-thirds of the global market, it allows developers to enhance and deploy services swiftly across these networks via single access points to the world’s largest connectivity platform. This framework marks a significant milestone in global mobile identity verification, equipping businesses with advanced tools to boost security, reduce fraud, and enhance user experience in accordance with the GSMA’s global Open Gateway initiative.’’

For businesses, The GSMA Open Gateway means faster time-to-market for new services, simpler global deployment, and reduced operational costs, enhancing their return on investment. And for mobile network operators, it opens new revenue streams by monetising network data.

Clare Messenger, Head of Mobile Intelligence at JT, said: JT’s involvement as a GSMA Open Gateway Channel Partner highlights our dedication to innovation and excellence in the telecoms industry. This partnership will enable us to deliver advanced solutions, driving global progress in fraud prevention and identity management. Additionally, it allows us to extend our leading Mobile Intelligence solutions to more organisations and developers.

This unified ecosystem will unlock the full potential of 5G networks, enabling businesses to launch innovative services that fully maximise the benefits of these networks.

Progress Milestone: JT and Ericsson Open Test Centre for Next-Generation Mobile Network

One year into a major infrastructure project, JT Group is delighted to announce that the programme to build the Channel Islands’ next-generation mobile networks is not only on schedule but has achieved a pivotal milestone by entering the testing phase.

5G technology promises unprecedented speeds, ultra-low latency, and massive connectivity, revolutionising industries and transforming communication. While its benefits are already enjoyed across Asia, the US, and most major UK towns and cities, rigorous testing across various stages of deployment and operation is essential to realise its full potential in the Channel Islands. This involves lab-testing environments and real everyday scenarios.

A dedicated state-of-the-art test lab, a separate controlled space replicating the network production environment, has now been established in Jersey. This facility will enable engineers to test changes before implementation, ensuring network performance and reliability.

Daragh McDermott, CEO of JT Group, said: “Reaching this exciting and critical phase on time is a testament to the exceptional skills of our team. The meticulous testing required to ensure network performance and reliability is of utmost importance. This new test environment represents a significant step towards achieving the technological transformation needed to meet future demands for Channel Islanders.”

The project includes mobile network modernisation and upgrades to JT’s Radio Access Network (RAN), Transport/Transmission and Core Network infrastructure and associated Network Management and operations tools. Beginning last year, the project features Ericsson’s advanced telecommunications solutions, software and services, especially the latest energy-efficient features, supporting a sustainable network evolution. In tandem with this project, JT continues its progress to simplify, digitise, and automate its processes, systems, and customer offerings, aligning with today’s consumer, business, home, and industry needs.

Katherine Ainley, CEO of Ericsson, UK and Ireland, said: “Our collaboration with JT is driven by a shared vision for next-generation connectivity. New technologies and architectures bring both benefits and challenges. The start of testing marks an exciting step towards completing a next-generation network, promising enhanced connectivity and innovation for the Channel Islands.”

Deputy Lyndon Farnham, Chief Minister of Jersey, said: “This substantial investment by JT will ensure islanders have access to the opportunities that new technology brings. Focusing on the future, this development of a next-generation mobile network is about more than improved connectivity; it is about building a resilient, innovative, and prosperous future for generations to come. This lab will evaluate equipment performance and validate new technologies, ensuring that the islands remain at the forefront of communications technology, offering access to cutting-edge services and products.”

Daragh McDermott, CEO of JT Group, added: “We are committed to building a network that delivers exceptional connectivity and encourages innovation, powering new services for consumers and businesses and contributing to the digital transformation and economic growth of Channel Islands. All things going well, we remain on track to deploy 5G by the end of 2025.”

JT donates ‘Purple’ phones to Safer, boosting community support for domestic abuse sufferers

Safer, a Guernsey charity that supports and empowers those experiencing domestic abuse, has launched its first community ‘Safer Space’ at the Guille-Alles library with help from JT.

The local telco has donated two mobile handsets with striking purple cases, the colour globally recognised as a symbol of support for domestic abuse charities, through its Community Giving scheme.

Anyone wanting to access help, can go to the Guille-Alles library and ask to use the mobile phone.  The receptionist will direct them to a discreet and private space where they can make the call to Safer.

This year Safer has worked with many local businesses to create more physical Safer spaces within the community. These spaces will have purple mobiles with numbers for Safer and other support services pre-programmed, allowing victims to safely and quickly contact the charity without fear of being tracked by their abuser.

Antonia Rainbow, Training Manager at Safer explained: ‘When people think about domestic abuse they usually think about physical abuse in a relationship, however, it can take many forms.  There is also sexual abuse, stalking and harassment, economic abuse and emotional and psychological abuse.  Most victims entering the Safer service will be experiencing multiple forms of abuse so it’s vital they can contact us safely and confidently, without the perpetrator being aware.’

Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, ethnicity, gender, religion, or sexuality. While it occurs in all types of relationships, most incidents involve men abusing women. Sadly, statistics indicate that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men will face domestic abuse at some point in their lives.

Antonia Rainbow, continued: ‘Alongside the phone at Guille-Alles library we are looking for a location for our second purple phone.  Our hope is to have many more Safer spaces around the Island so that sufferers can visit without causing suspicion to their abusers.  The only way we can stop domestic abuse is to talk about it and we’re really grateful to JT for joining the conversation by making this much needed donation and helping us to raise awareness.’

Pip Carpenter, Head of Consumer Markets and Community Partnerships, at JT said: ‘Our decision to support Safer reflects our genuine commitment to making a meaningful impact in our community. Our goal is to support the dedicated individuals who assist those in our community who are suffering silently. We believe that access to technology can significantly improve the lives of individuals in vulnerable situations by giving them a vital lifeline to seek help.’’

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Safeguarding digital transactions

Did you know that a staggering two-thirds of all reported fraudulent transactions can be traced back to mobile phones? As we increasingly bank, shop, and socialise online, smartphones have become prime targets for cybercriminals. Techniques such as SIM Swap fraud, Authorised Push Payment, and Call-forwarding fraud are commonly used to deceive customers.

At JT, we fully recognise the dangers of financial fraud. That’s why we created JT Mobile Intelligence, giving us a unique edge. Our solutions and products, used the world over, verify identities, authenticates transactions, and detects fraud, safeguarding businesses and their customers. These tools are crucial for effective KYC processes, because at the end of the day, happy customers are the core of any business.

Our Chief Product Officer, Tom Noel, explains more about how JT is making a difference, read here.

Enhanced Internet Connectivity at The Croft with Advanced Wi-Fi Technology

The Croft, a residential care unit in St Sampson, has had a recent upgrade to its internet infrastructure to improve online accessibility for visitors, staff and service users. This was made possible by a generous contribution from the JT Community Giving scheme, which donated JT Total Wi-Fi for the property, maximising their existing broadband connection.

Operated by the Child Development Service, The Croft is a six-bedroom home that provides a short break and respite service for children and young people up to the age of 18 with moderate to severe learning needs or complex physical disabilities. The service also provides support to users in their own home or in community settings as well as running special needs play and activity schemes in the major school holidays.

The donated Plume Pods expand Wi-Fi coverage throughout a building, ensuring a stable and reliable connection that can support the growing number of digital devices being used within The Croft on a daily basis. They also incorporate cutting-edge cyber-protection and intuitive parental controls, creating a safer online environment for all users. JT also donated a set of iPads to help with the team’s learning programmes, providing a portable and accessible way to boost the children’s education and creativity wherever they are.

Nick Phipps, Centre Manager for The Croft said: “We’re really grateful to JT Community Giving for their generous support, which has truly transformed our digital capabilities. This has not only improved the learning and leisure experiences for our kids but also boosted the resources available to our staff and the programming we can offer. It’s made a significant difference in how everyone, children, staff, and visitors, can connect and interact, improving our community’s overall digital experience.”

Kate Marshall, Head of Guernsey Enterprise at JT, commented on the project’s impact: ” Access to the internet is a doorway to the world for everyone, by improving these connections, we’re not just opening up a network; we’re supporting the team at The Croft to unlock countless opportunities for learning, engagement, and growth. For us at JT, our Community Giving Scheme is about ensuring everyone, regardless of their abilities, can safely explore, learn, and thrive in today’s digital age.’’

The Community Giving scheme is open to all registered charities, schools, and community groups across the Channel Islands that meet at least one of four criteria: community support, digital inclusivity, raising awareness of mental and physical health and wellbeing, and environmental improvement.

For more information about JT Community Giving, FAQs and an application form, go to: https://www.jtglobal.com/community-giving/

The Channel Islands’ has its first Data Roaming eSIM

Seamless Connectivity available for everyone who travels

In a significant enhancement to mobile services, JT has launched the first and only Data Roaming eSIM from a Channel Islands mobile network operator. The JT eSIM is now available to all Channel Islanders and visitors, offering market-leading data roaming rates in the UK and EU helping people save money, regardless of which telecoms provider they normally use – all with the simplicity and ease of eSIM technology.

So what exactly is an eSIM and how does it work? eSIM is a digital SIM already built into modern devices, like newer smartphones and tablets, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card. To activate it, you just scan a QR code or download it through an app, which lets you connect to a mobile network in minutes.

The JT eSIM is the best option if you’re looking for an easy way to stay connected while travelling. You won’t need to switch SIM cards as you move across the UK and Europe, and you’ll get the lowest data rates without the worry of bill shock. It’s also perfect for visitors to the Channel Islands, whether here for a day or a month. The best part? It’s available to everyone, no matter which provider you use. It’s contract-free and doesn’t require credit checks, giving you complete flexibility and control over your mobile usage.

Lee Madden, CEO, GR8 Recruitment said: “Providing affordable connectivity for employees coming to the island to work in various sectors is essential. With JT eSIM, staying in touch with family back home and connecting with new people here is now going to be so much easier. It’s simple to setup, with no language barriers, just scan, pay, and go. It’s flexible, instant, and requires no commitment.’’

Steph Parker, Travel Influencer @bigworldsmallpockets said: ‘’JT eSIM is a game-changer for solo travellers. Instant, secure connectivity which really gives me peace of mind wherever I go. It’s affordable, easy to top up, and knows no borders. Stay connected and safe on all your adventures!’’

The beauty of this option is that the JT eSIM works across multiple countries for 30 days, making it perfect for planned business trips and holidays or spontaneous border-crossing adventures.

Tom Noel, Chief Product Officer, JT Group said: ‘‘At JT, our focus is on the customer. Our Data Roaming eSIM is easy to use, affordable, and flexible, with no long-term commitment required. You don’t need to be a JT customer to enjoy roaming with JT.

Tom added: ‘’With Many CI businesses having an international presence and with many others expanding into new markets, the JT eSIM offers a solution to one of their biggest challenges: maintaining reliable and cost-efficient global connectivity, from a trusted provider that they know they can rely on. eSIM technology is set to replace physical SIMs soon, and we’re committed to staying ahead of these changes to meet the needs of travellers everywhere.’’

JT Group Drives Global Expansion with Advanced Fraud Detection Technology

Following the acquisition of Spectrum Message services earlier this year, JT Group is rapidly expanding its reach across the Americas in response to overwhelming demand. This expansion highlights JT’s commitment to combating financial crime with innovative mobile intelligence solutions and marks the introduction of their latest fraud prevention product, MoneyGuard, to new markets, reinforcing its role as a leader in financial security.

Washington based, Andreas Suma, is leading this expansion in North and Latin America. He brings over two decades of experience in developing growth strategies for top firms in the fraud prevention domain as well as significant experience in payments and digital channels across the hemisphere, including ACI Worldwide, FICO, and Clickatell. His expertise is crucial in tailoring MoneyGuard to meet the specific challenges of the American markets.

According to recent statistics, incidents of fraud involving payment platforms continue to see notable increases, with consumers reporting a 50% rise in fraudulent activities last year alone. This trend is predicted to continue, driven by evolving fraud threats and the increasing adoption of real time payments. MoneyGuard tackles this challenge head-on by integrating sophisticated mobile intelligence and customer engagement capabilities into everyday financial transactions, enhancing fraud detection and prevention in real-time. MoneyGuard currently protects over 130 million customer accounts globally and supports comprehensive communication via SMS, WhatsApp, mobile app push notifications, email, and voice, keeping customers informed through convenient, cost-effective, and preferred channels.

Tom Noel, Chief Product Officer, JT Group, said, “Our expansion into the US is driven by the urgent need for cutting-edge, accessible technology that secures consumers’ finances against increasingly sophisticated threats. MoneyGuard represents the pinnacle of our innovative efforts, blending real-time fraud detection with mobile intelligence solutions to provide a steadfast defence for consumers.”

Andreas Suma, Managing Director, JT Mobile Intelligence added, “The proven MoneyGuard solution is an ideal fit for the US market as consumers increasingly adopt real-time payments. Increasing usage of alternative payments and wallets, including the impending entry of FedNow standards, will accelerate this shift. Capabilities such as MoneyGuard allow better protections to consumers and greatly minimize friction with consumers engaged through traditional channels while notably reducing operational costs.”

With ongoing plans to expand its Mobile Intelligence solutions, JT is committed to ensuring that businesses and their customers can rely on their transactions being safeguarded by the most advanced systems available.