Meon Valley MP Flick Drummond is urging the public to publicise how people can easily phone their bank or building society if they are concerned about fraud.
Flick held a fraud and scams forum earlier this month and was told about the phone number 159 – a safe and secure way to get hold of all major UK banks and building societies.
She admitted it was the first time she had heard of the number and she wants awareness of it raised in places like village halls, care homes, men’s sheds and other voluntary groups and charities across Hampshire.
"Online fraud and scams are costing the country billions each year. Being able to securely call up a bank if concerned about a phone call or text message will help stop people becoming victims," the MP explained.
“I understand that if someone is on a phone asking for personal details or saying your money is going to be stolen, people can sometimes quite rightly panic or be fearful they won’t be talking to their bank.
“But using 159 eliminates that fear and it will put anyone through to a bank and not the fraudsters. It’s so easy to remember and it means you will be getting the right advice without having to find or remember a bank’s direct number.
Flick added: “Please spread the word about 159.”
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