UK smartphone users are being warned to be cautious of a concerning new text message circulating on devices. The recent resurgence of the infamous “Hi Mum” scam has already resulted in significant financial losses for victims.
The scheme starts with a seemingly innocent text from a supposed family member using a new phone number, leveraging the current season to appear timely and relevant. An example message might say: “Hi Mum, I’m feeling hot and overwhelmed. Please reach out to me on my new number – it’s urgent.”
Upon receiving a response, the scammer pretends to be a distressed relative in need and eventually requests money transfer, often under the guise of an emergency situation. These fraudulent tactics prey on parents’ natural inclination to assist their children, inducing panic and swift action without verifying the authenticity of the plea.
Should you encounter such a message, refrain from replying. Instead, contact your family member through their established phone number to confirm their safety. If suspicious, report the text promptly to prevent further harm.
In case of a dubious message:
– Avoid engaging with the sender.
– Reach out to your loved one using their usual contact details.
– Forward the suspicious text to 7726, the UK’s spam reporting service.
While the scam may appear obvious in retrospect, its emotional manipulation has duped numerous individuals, particularly those less familiar with technology. The persuasive narratives crafted in these messages can coerce victims into sending money without verifying the legitimacy of the request.
The financial impact of these scams is significant, with Action Fraud revealing that over £220,000 was lost to “Hi Mum” scams in the UK between 2023 and 2025. To stay safe, exercise caution when confronted with unexpected messages purporting to be from family members. Always authenticate their identity through a trusted communication channel before taking any action.