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Bank scams are on the rise. Between April and June 2024, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) recorded 8,734 complaints about fraud and scams.

Over half involved push payment (APP) scams – where people are tricked into transferring money to fraudsters, often believing they’re speaking to the bank.[1]

To help protect people, Stop Scams UK has launched the 159 scheme – a simple and secure way to check if a call from your bank is genuine.

How scams affect people[2]

Scams don’t just cost money – they can have a lasting emotional impact:

  • £11.4 billion was lost to scams in the past year – around £1,400 per person.
  • Only 18% of victims recovered all their money.
  • 53% said the experience left a strong emotional effect.
  • 71% didn’t report it – often due to shame or fear they wouldn’t be believed.

Spot the red flags

Scammers often pretend to be from your bank. Be cautious if you’re:

  • Urgently asked to move money or confirm a payment.
  • Asked for passwords, PINs or verification codes.
  • Pressured not to hang up or call your bank separately.
  • Made to feel rushed, anxious or intimidated.

If anything doesn’t feel right, hang up and call your bank directly on 159.

Call 159 if you get a suspicious call about  your finances

159 is a secure, easy-to-remember number that connects you to your bank. It’s managed by Stop Scams UK and works with over 99% of UK banks. The number can’t be spoofed or cloned and it’s free to use.

What else can you do?

Report scam calls

  • In England, Wales or Northern Ireland: Visit Action Fraud or call 0300 123 2040
  • In Scotland: Call Police Scotland on 101

Never share passwords over the phone

No bank will ever ask for your password, PIN or verification code over the phone. If they do, it’s a scam – hang up.

Use phone features to block scams

Your phone provider might offer:  

  • Caller display
  • Call blocking
  • Anonymous call rejection

Get in touch with them to see what’s available.

Be cautious of unknown numbers

If a number looks unfamiliar, check it first. Sites like Who Called Me can tell you if a number is suspicious.

Stay alert across platforms

Scammers don’t just call – they text, email, message through social media and use fake websites. Visit the National Cyber Security Centre for tips on spotting and reporting online scams.

We’re here to help

If money worries are on your mind and you’re struggling to pay your bills, call us on 0800 813 1833. We’re open from 8am-8pm Monday to Friday and 9am-3pm on Saturdays. Alternatively, you can visit our advice page to speak to us via Live Chat or for more information.

[1] https://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/news/financial-ombudsman-service-received-140000-complaints-second-half-2024

[2] https://www.cifas.org.uk/newsroom/gasa-stateofscamsuk2024