UK smartphone users are being warned about a concerning new text message circulating on mobile devices. The latest deceptive messages are a resurgence of the infamous “Hi Mum” scam, which has already resulted in substantial financial losses for victims.
The scam typically initiates with a text seemingly from a family member using a new phone number, leveraging current seasonal conditions to give a sense of immediacy. An example message might say, “Hi Mum, I’m feeling hot and stressed. Please reach out to me on my new number – it’s urgent.”
Once the recipient responds, the scammer pretends to be a distressed relative and eventually requests money transfer, often under the guise of an emergency situation. These scams are effective as they exploit parents’ natural inclination to assist their children, urging quick action without time for scrutiny.
If you encounter such a message, refrain from replying. Instead, contact your family member using their established phone number to verify their safety. Report any suspicious texts promptly to prevent further harm.
In case of a doubtful message:
– Do not engage in conversation.
– Reach out to your loved one through their regular contact details.
– Forward the suspicious message to 7726, the UK’s spam reporting service.
While the scam may appear obvious in retrospect, it has duped numerous individuals, especially those less familiar with technology, by playing on emotions and crafting believable narratives that coerce victims into sending money without validation.
The financial impact of the fraud 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 safe, exercise caution with any unexpected messages claiming to be from family members. Always authenticate their identity through a trusted communication channel before responding or making any monetary transactions.