Millions of people have used a little-known code to protect themselves from cybercriminals trying to steal their money. The three-digit number 159, recently highlighted by Martin Lewis' MoneySavingExpert (MSE) team, is a secure hotline that connects callers directly to their bank after a suspicious call.
Suspicious calls can take many forms, including scammers pretending to be from bank fraud departments. The MSE team advises: 'If you receive a call from your bank that doesn't feel right, hang up immediately and dial 159. You'll be connected directly to your actual bank, which can advise whether the call was genuine.'
What is 159 and is it free to use?
Stop Scams UK, which operates the 159 line, says it works like 101 for the police or 111 for the NHS. Launched in 2021, it helps UK banking customers safely connect with their bank after an unexpected or suspicious call. The cost varies by phone provider; it is often a national rate call, but may be deducted from inclusive minutes on mobile or landline tariffs.
Which banks can be reached through 159?
As of June 2026, the full list of banking brands available via 159 includes: Bank of Ireland UK, Bank of Scotland, Barclays, Cater Allen Private Bank, Chase, Co-operative Bank, Danske Bank, First Direct, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds, Metro Bank, Modulr, Monzo, Nationwide Building Society, NatWest, Revolut, Royal Bank of Scotland, Santander, Spring, Starling Bank, Tide, True Potential, TSB, Ulster Bank, Virgin Money, and Zempler Bank.
The MSE team urges everyone to remember 159: '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.'
