UK smartphone users are being warned about a concerning new text message circulating on devices. This resurgence of the deceptive “Hi Mum” scam has already resulted in significant financial losses for victims.
The scam initiates with a seemingly innocent text from what appears to be a family member using a different phone number, leveraging current seasonal conditions to appear authentic. The fraudulent message typically conveys urgency, stating, “Hi Mum, I’m feeling overwhelmed by the heat. Please reach out to me on my new number – it’s urgent.”
Subsequently, the fraudster impersonates a distressed relative and eventually requests money transfer, often under the guise of an emergency. These scams exploit the natural parental instinct to assist children and are crafted to induce panic, urging quick action before doubt can set in.
To counter such fraudulent attempts, refrain from responding to suspicious messages. Instead, contact your family member through their established phone number to verify their safety. Report any dubious texts promptly to safeguard others.
In case you receive an unsolicited message:
– Avoid replying.
– Reach out to your loved one using their regular contact number.
– Forward the questionable text to 7726, the UK’s spam reporting service.
While the scam might appear obvious in retrospect, its emotional manipulation has led many individuals to fall victim to the scheme. Victims, especially those less adept with technology, can be swayed by the compelling narratives in these messages, compelling them to send money without due verification.
The financial impact of these scams is substantial, with Action Fraud revealing that over £220,000 was lost to “Hi Mum” scams in the UK between 2023 and 2025. To stay protected, exercise caution when receiving unexpected messages purportedly from family members. Always authenticate their identity through a trusted communication channel before taking any action.
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