The International Risk Podcast

Episode 227: Fraud, Risk, and KYC with Jason Costain

Dominic Bowen Season 5 Episode 227

This week on The International Risk Podcast, Dominic Bowen speaks with Jason Costain, one of the UK’s leading fraud strategists and the founder of Javloc, a specialist consultancy in financial crime prevention.

In this deep-dive episode, they examine the accelerating threat landscape shaped by fraud, artificial intelligence, and the unintended consequences of digital innovation. From real-time payment systems and synthetic identities to the manipulation of consumer psychology and the exploitation of cryptocurrency hype, this conversation uncovers the critical vulnerabilities facing both individuals and institutions.

Jason shares hard-won insights from three decades at the forefront of fraud detection and response, including his work building and leading fraud defence teams at NatWest Group. The episode also explores how financial institutions can move beyond reactive measures by embedding biometric security, adaptive limits, and customer training into their fraud strategy — all while dismantling siloed thinking between UX, payments, and risk teams.

Jason Costain is the founder of Javloc, and previously served as Head of Fraud Strategy and Relationship Management at NatWest Group. His work has shaped fraud defence systems across the UK banking sector, with a focus on AI, scam prevention, big data, and behavioural risk.

The International Risk Podcast is a must-listen for senior executives, board members, and risk advisors who need more than headlines. Each week, Dominic Bowen cuts through the noise to bring you unfiltered insights on emerging risks, geopolitics, international relations flashpoints, boardroom blind spots, and strategic opportunities. Hosted by Dominic Bowen, Head of Strategic Advisory at one of Europe's top risk consulting firms, The International Risk Podcast brings together global experts to share insights and actionable strategies from the people who have been there, done it, and shaped outcomes at the highest levels.

Dominic's 25 years of experience managing complex operations in high-risk environments, combined with his role as a public speaker and university lecturer, make him uniquely positioned to guide these conversations. From conflict zones to corporate boardrooms, he explores the risks shaping our world and how organisations can navigate them. Whether he is speaking with intelligence operatives, CEOs, political advisors, or analysts, Dominic helps leaders gain competitive advantage through these conversations.

The International Risk Podcast – Reducing risk by increasing knowledge.

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