UK smartphone users are being warned to be on alert for a concerning new text message circulating on mobile devices. The latest fraudulent messages are a resurgence of the infamous “Hi Mum” scam, which has already resulted in significant financial losses for victims.
The scam starts with a seemingly innocent text from a supposed family member using a different phone number, leveraging current weather conditions to appear urgent and relevant. An example message typically reads: “Hi Mum, I’m feeling overwhelmed and need you to contact me on my new number – it’s urgent.”
Upon receiving a response, the scammer impersonates a distressed family member and eventually requests money, often claiming it’s for an emergency situation. These scams are effective as they prey on parents’ natural inclination to assist their children, creating a sense of urgency that discourages hesitation or verification of the message’s authenticity.
If you encounter such a message, refrain from replying. Instead, reach out to your family member using their established phone number to confirm their safety. Report the suspicious text promptly to prevent further scams.
In case you receive a dubious message:
– Avoid responding directly.
– Contact your loved one using their regular phone number.
– Forward the suspicious text to 7726, the UK’s spam reporting service.
Although the scam may seem obvious afterward, it has ensnared numerous victims, particularly those less familiar with technology who may succumb to the emotional manipulation of the messages. The convincing narratives pressure individuals into sending money without verifying the legitimacy of the request.
The financial impact of these scams is significant, with Action Fraud reporting over £220,000 lost to “Hi Mum” scams in the UK between 2023 and 2025. To safeguard against such schemes, exercise caution when receiving unexpected messages purporting to be from family members. Always authenticate their identity through a trusted communication channel before taking any action.
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