Getting scammed is the worst—one minute you’re minding your business, the next your bank balance is taking a hit. But there’s a simple way to fight back: 159—the three-digit number designed to connect you straight to your bank when you suspect fraud.
What’s 159, and Why Should You Care?
Instead of scrambling to find the right number, dial 159 and say (or type a number) your bank’s name. It’ll put you directly through to their customer service team without the risk of dialing a fake number.
- No weird extra charges—it costs the same as a normal call and is included in most plans.
- Big plans ahead—Stop Scams UK is working to make 159 a universal number across all phone networks, like 101 for non-emergency police calls.
🚨 Heads-up: Three network users on some Android devices might have trouble using 159. They’re working on fixing it, but if you’re affected, call your bank directly instead.
Why 159 Matters—The £570 Million Problem
Scammers are getting bolder—over £570 million was stolen in the first half of 2024 alone. Fake calls pretending to be from your bank are a major tactic, tricking people into handing over sensitive details.
With 159, you cut out the risk of calling a fraudulent number by mistake.
Think You've Been Scammed? Here’s What to Do
🛑 Call 159 ASAP if you’ve given out your card or banking details. Let your bank know what’s happened and ask them to cancel any suspicious payments.
Or
☎️ Find your bank’s real contact details—check the back of your card, your app, or an official statement. Never trust numbers sent via text or email.
🕵️ Report it.
- Action Fraud (England, Wales, NI): Website or 0300 123 2040.
- Consumeradvice Scotland: Website or 0808 164 6000.
- Police Scotland: 101.
💳 Try to get your money back.
- If you paid more than £100 on a credit card, Section 75 might help.
- If it was a debit card or less than £100 on credit, chargeback could work.
💡 If you sent money via PayPal, Moneygram, or Western Union, refunds are tricky—but report the scam anyway.
Stay Scam-Savvy
🚀 Save 159 your contacts and use it whenever something feels off. Scammers are getting creative, but you can outsmart them by staying informed and using the right resources.
Spread the word—protect yourself, your mates, and your family from fraud.
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