UK smartphone users are being warned about a concerning new text message circulating on devices. This latest scam message is a resurgence of the notorious “Hi Mum” scheme, which has already caused victims to lose substantial amounts of money.
The scam starts with a seemingly innocent text supposedly sent by a family member using a different phone number, leveraging the current summer season to appear timely. The fraudulent message typically reads, “Hi Mum, I’m feeling hot and stressed. Please contact me on my new number – it’s urgent.”
Upon receiving a response, the scammer impersonates a distressed relative and eventually requests a money transfer, often under the guise of an emergency situation. These fraudulent tactics prey on parents’ innate inclination to assist their children, aiming to evoke panic and prompt immediate action without critical evaluation.
To combat these scams, it is advised not to engage with such messages. Instead, reach out to the purported family member using their known contact information to verify their safety. If suspicious, report the message promptly to prevent others from falling victim.
In case of receiving a dubious message:
– Refrain from replying.
– Verify the sender’s identity by contacting them through their usual phone number.
– Forward the suspicious text to 7726, the UK’s spam reporting service.
Although the scam might appear obvious in hindsight, its emotional manipulation has ensnared numerous victims. Particularly vulnerable individuals can be deceived by the compelling narratives in these messages, leading them to hastily send money without authenticating the request.
The financial impact of these scams is substantial, with Action Fraud reporting losses exceeding £220,000 to “Hi Mum” scams in the UK from 2023 to 2025. To safeguard against such fraudulent activities, exercise caution when receiving unexpected messages purportedly from family members. Always validate their identity through a trusted communication channel before responding or transferring funds.