Martin Lewis, the founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, has always been a trusted source of financial advice for millions of people in the UK. His latest tip for bank customers is no exception. In a recent interview, Lewis shared a simple yet effective way to avoid falling victim to bank scams – and it only involves dialling a three-digit code.
With the rise of digital banking and online transactions, the risk of being scammed has also increased. According to UK Finance, a trade association for the banking and financial services sector, there were over 1.8 million cases of bank fraud reported in 2019, resulting in losses of £1.2 billion. This alarming number highlights the need for individuals to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their hard-earned money.
In his interview, Lewis revealed that by simply dialling the three-digit code *#21# on your mobile phone, you can check if your calls and messages are being diverted to another number. This is a common tactic used by scammers to gain access to your personal and financial information. If the code shows that your calls and messages are being diverted, it is a clear indication that you are being targeted by scammers.
The best part about this tip is that it works for all mobile networks in the UK, making it accessible to everyone. It is a quick and easy way to check if your phone has been compromised without having to download any additional apps or software. This is especially useful for those who are not tech-savvy and may not be aware of other ways to protect themselves from scams.
Lewis also advised that if the code shows that your calls and messages are being diverted, you should contact your mobile network provider immediately and report the issue. They will be able to investigate and take necessary actions to stop the scammers from accessing your personal information. It is also recommended to change your online banking passwords and enable two-factor authentication for added security.
This simple tip from Martin Lewis has already received positive feedback from many bank customers who have tried it and found that their calls and messages were indeed being diverted. It is a small but effective step towards protecting yourself from bank scams. As Lewis himself said, “It’s a simple, free, and quick way to check if you’re being scammed. It’s not a guarantee, but it’s a useful tool to have in your arsenal.”
In addition to this tip, Lewis also shared other ways to protect yourself from bank scams. These include being cautious of unexpected calls or messages from your bank, never giving out personal information over the phone or email, and regularly checking your bank statements for any suspicious activity. It is also important to educate yourself and your loved ones about the different types of scams and how to spot them.
In conclusion, Martin Lewis’ tip to dial *#21# is a valuable tool for bank customers to protect themselves from scams. It is a simple and accessible solution that can potentially save you from losing your hard-earned money. As Lewis himself said, “It’s a no-brainer. It’s free, it’s quick, and it could save you a lot of money and heartache.” So, next time you receive a suspicious call or message, remember to dial *#21# and stay one step ahead of scammers.
