UK smartphone users are being cautioned to remain alert for a concerning new text message circulating on devices.
These recent fraudulent messages reintroduce the infamous “Hi Mum” scam, a strategy that has already led to substantial financial losses for victims.
The scheme commences with a seemingly innocent text purportedly from a son or daughter using a different phone number, leveraging the current summer season to create a sense of immediacy.
A typical message might say: “Hi Mum, I’m feeling overheated and stressed. Please reach out to me on my new number – it’s urgent.”
Upon receiving a response, the scammer pretends to be a distressed family member in need and eventually requests a money transfer, often fabricating an emergency situation.
Report Fraud highlights that these scams are highly successful as they exploit parents’ innate inclination to assist their children. The messages are crafted to instigate panic and prompt immediate action before individuals can doubt the authenticity of the appeal.
Should you receive such a message, refrain from replying. Instead, verify the safety of your relative using the number already stored in your contacts. If it is a scam, promptly report the text to prevent others from falling victim.
When faced with a suspicious message:
– Avoid responding.
– Reach out to your loved one through their usual contact number.
– Forward the dubious text to 7726, the UK’s spam reporting service.
Although the scam may appear obvious after the fact, it has ensnared numerous victims, especially those less familiar with technology. The emotional manipulation within the messages constructs a compelling narrative that coerces victims into transferring money without confirming the legitimacy of the request.
The extent of the fraud is significant, with Action Fraud revealing that over £220,000 was lost to “Hi Mum” scams in the UK between 2023 and 2025.
The most prudent approach is to exercise caution when faced with an unexpected message purporting to be from a family member. Always validate their identity using a trusted communication method before engaging or sending funds.