The Jersey Financial Services Commission has warned the public about Prime Defender Group, which it says displays signs of being set up for fraudulent purposes and appears to be a scam. The commission said it is aware of a case in which a member of the public was cold called by the firm and falsely told that an investment had significantly increased in value, with an offer to recover the funds for a fee. It said the activity is consistent with advance fee fraud. The notice explains that advance fee fraud involves promises of money, investment returns or recovery of lost funds in exchange for upfront payments, after which the victim receives nothing because the claimed funds do not exist. It highlighted common warning signs including unsolicited calls, emails or texts, claims that funds are available or recoverable, requests for fees before any payment is made, and pressure to act quickly. The commission advised people not to respond immediately to unexpected approaches, to verify requests using official contact details and regulatory registers, and to speak to a trusted person, bank or service provider before sending money. The commission said suspected cases should be reported to its Enforcement Division, the States of Jersey Police and, where a payment has already been made, the victim’s bank.
Jersey Financial Services Commission2026-06-12
Jersey Financial Services Commission warns that Prime Defender Group appears to be an advance fee scam
The Jersey Financial Services Commission has issued a public warning on Prime Defender Group, saying it appears to be a scam and shows signs of advance fee fraud. The case involved a cold call falsely claiming an investment had risen in value and offering fund recovery for a fee. The commission urged the public to verify unsolicited approaches and report suspected cases to the authorities and their bank if payment has been made.