Martin Lewis' team at MoneySavingExpert (MSE) has issued a reminder for customers of major banks, including Lloyds, Nationwide, and NatWest, to dial a three-digit number if they suspect a scam call. The secure hotline, 159, is designed to protect millions from cybercriminal tactics.
What Is the 159 Service?
Stop Scams UK operates the 159 hotline, which works similarly to 101 for police or 111 for the NHS. Launched in 2021, it provides a safe way for UK banking customers to contact their bank after receiving unexpected or suspicious calls. The service ensures you are connected directly to your genuine bank, allowing you to verify whether a call was legitimate.
MSE explains: "If you receive a call from your 'bank' that feels off, hang up immediately and dial 159. You'll be connected to your actual bank, which can advise on the call's authenticity."
Is It Free to Call 159?
The cost of dialing 159 varies by phone provider. Typically, it matches a standard national rate call, but if your mobile or landline package includes free minutes, 159 calls are usually counted within that allowance. While there are hopes that Ofcom will eventually make 159 a free universal service like 111 or 999, no exact timeline has been set.
Banks Covered by the 159 Service
As of June 2026, the following banking brands can be contacted via 159:
- 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
- Zempler Bank
Over 14 million people in the UK bank specifically with Lloyds, making this reminder particularly relevant. Fraudsters often impersonate bank fraud departments, so never assume a call is genuine. If in doubt, hang up and dial 159.
