Have you heard about the 159 telephone number?
This is a UK-wide telephone number that you can use to contact your bank's fraud department. It works similar to how 111 is used for the NHS and 101 for non-emergency calls to the police. It acts as a safety shortcut, connecting users directly to their bank's fraud prevention service. The service is managed by Stop Scams UK, an anti-fraud coalition.
Calling 159 allows you to speak to someone from your bank's fraud team. They can help you check on potential scams, and verify the legitimacy of a call or message you may have received claiming to come from your bank. You can also use this number for added reassurance prior to taking part in any new financial transaction.
If you receive a suspicious call or message involving any type of financial transaction, including those claiming to be from your bank or other organisations, just STOP. Then call 159 to check on the authenticity of the call or message.
If you are making the call in response to an incoming telephone call, ideally dial 159 from a different phone to ensure the scammer can't intercept or redirect your call. If you only have one phone available to use, wait a short while, then phone a friend whose voice you will recognise. This ensures that your phone line is now clear. Then call 159.
The 159 number is a safe and secure way to contact your bank, helping to protect you from financial fraud. The service is supported by major UK banks and telecommunications companies. Please note that 159 will never call you.
If you wish to report an attempted fraud, scam or cyber crime please visit: http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/
You can receive more general updates like this (and about your policing in your local area) by signing up to Devon and Cornwall Alert service - https://alerts.dc.police.uk/