Millions have used a little-known code to ensure they do not fall foul of tricks set up by cybercriminals and risk losing their hard-earned cash. Recently highlighted by Martin Lewis' MoneySavingExpert (MSE) team, people have been urged to remember three numbers to punch into their phones if they feel they have been targeted by someone claiming to be their bank.
Suspicious calls take many forms. There have been cases of scammers pretending to be from fraud departments, so do not just assume a call which appears to come from your 'bank' is always legitimate – if unsure, hang up and dial 159 instead.
The MSE team said: "There's a secure and easy hotline that can help check if a suspicious call was genuine. The number is 159 and is operated by Stop Scams UK.
"If you receive a call from your 'bank' that you think doesn't feel quite right, hang up immediately and dial 159. You'll be connected directly to your actual bank, which should then be able to advise whether the call was genuine or not."
Stop Scams UK claims that the 159 line "works in the same way as 101 for the police or 111 for the NHS". It launched in 2021 to help UK banking customers safely and securely connect with their bank if they receive an unexpected or suspicious call.
The website added: "It’s the number you can trust to get you through to your bank safely and securely, every time. So if you think someone is trying to trick you into handing over money or personal details – stop, hang up and call 159 to speak directly to your bank."
The cost of calling 159 will vary according to your phone provider. In many cases, this will be the same as a national rate call, but ask your specific provider for details. If your mobile or landline tariff includes inclusive call minutes, 159 calls are usually deducted from that allowance
As of June 2026, the full list of available genuine banking brands that can be reached by calling the 159 line includes:
