Martin Lewis has issued an “urgent” three digit code to anyone who has a bank account amid a rise in scams. The ITV The Martin Lewis Money Show star, who is a BBC Sounds podcast host too, spoke out on Twitter/X about how to get in touch with your bank urgently.
Mr Lewis warned: “Phone number to remember: 159. If you need to call your bank urgently (eg its just called you, and you’ve hung up as it may be a scam) and can’t remember your number, just call 159 and it’ll put you through.
“PS if you have had posses scam call, use a different line to call back (or wait an hour) in case they’re spoofing a dial tone.” He added: “It’s been around a while – this is just a reminder.” Mr Lewis also shared how it is “free” and doesn’t cost billpayers.
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A Twitter/X user said: “If it’s a scam, rather than waiting an hour, surely ringing a known number, like family member or friend first, then calling the bank would prove the line was clear.” Mr Lewis’ initial tweet was posted back in September but this week (April 25) he has retweeted the message.
“Does this work with every bank or only after someone has called you claiming to be from your bank? Does dialing 159 (even if you haven’t had a spam call) put you through to YOUR bank? How does dialing 159 know what bank your with? Not thick just curious lol,” someone asked.
“I’m getting constant calls purporting to be Sky and there’s an update issue with my broadband. I’m not with Sky, my number is registered on TPS yet these calls are becoming daily & all different numbers,” another wrote.
And another said: “If your phone lost or stolen or you’ve had your cards robbed (know of someone attacked) they beat him up took phone and cards by the time he got hold of his bank the cards were maxed but if you could go to any cash point and any bank enter PIN DOB this could block all usage.”
