IWASP has revealed a new fraud hotline that will let you check whether a call from your bank is genuine.
Together, Stop Scams UK and the Global Cyber Alliance have launched the 159 pilot scheme.
It is billed as a practical way to check if the caller is your bank, or a scammer.
Figures show that fraud involving impersonation of the police or banks shot up by 129 per cent in 2021.
Remember that 159 will never call you but you can call 159 if:
- Someone contacts you saying they’re from your bank — even if they are not suspicious.
- You receive a call asking you to transfer money or make a payment — even if it seems genuine.
- You receive a call about a financial matter and it seems suspicious.
Not all banks have signed up yet, so when you call you will be taken through a list of the participating banks and you can press the relevant number on your keypad, you will then be put through to your bank.
Use another phone, or wait 30 minutes, as scammers have the technology to stay on the line, intercept your call and pretend to be your bank.
Reporting a scam
- For advice on scams call — Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline: 0808 250 5050
- To report a scam call — Action Fraud: 0300 123 2040
If you are concerned about somebody you care about, or for more information on scams, visit: www.iwasp.org.uk
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