How it works

159 works in the same way as 101 for the police or 111 for the NHS. 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.

Our story

We launched 159 in 2021. We wanted to provide a memorable simple way to connect UK banking customers safely and securely with their bank if they receive an unexpected or suspicious call about a financial matter.

This breaks the scam ‘journey’ at the critical moment when you are at most risk of being manipulated into making a payment. So, even if scammers can make contact with you, that link will be broken by your call to 159, before any information is shared, any payment is made, and any harm is done.

Our vision for the future

Over 400,000 calls have been made to 159, and we have ambitious plans for its future.

While it’s available to almost everyone already, we are working towards making 159 a universal number offered by all telephone providers, similar to 101, 111 or 999.

What does it cost?

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. Please ask your provider for details.

Bank of Scotland

Barclays

Co-operative Bank

First Direct

Halifax

HSBC

Lloyds

Metro Bank

Monzo