UK mobile phone users are being warned to remain cautious of a new text message scam circulating on devices. This deceptive scheme, known as the “Hi Mum” scam, has already led to substantial financial losses for numerous victims.
The fraudulent messages start with a seemingly innocent text supposedly from a family member using a different phone number, leveraging current seasonal conditions to appear timely. An example of such a message states: “Hi Mum, I’m feeling overwhelmed and need you to contact me on my new number urgently.”
Upon responding to the initial message, the scammer continues to impersonate a relative in distress and eventually asks for money to be transferred, often under the guise of an emergency situation.
Experts highlight that these scams exploit the natural inclination of parents to assist their children in need. The messages are crafted to instill panic and prompt quick actions before individuals have a chance to question the authenticity of the request.
In the event of receiving such a message, it is advised not to engage. Instead, verify the safety of your family member using their established contact details. If you suspect a scam, promptly report the text to prevent others from falling victim.
Key steps to take if you receive a suspicious message include refraining from responding, contacting your loved one through their regular phone number, and forwarding the dubious text to 7726, the spam reporting service in the UK.
While the scam might appear obvious in hindsight, its emotional manipulation has led to numerous individuals being deceived. Victims, especially those less familiar with technology, can be swayed by the compelling narratives in the messages, resulting in them sending money without verifying the legitimacy of the situation.
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 safeguard against such fraudulent attempts, it is crucial to approach any unexpected message claiming to be from a family member with skepticism. Always authenticate the sender’s identity through a trusted communication channel before taking any further steps.
