UK smartphone users are being warned about a concerning new text message circulating on devices. The latest fraudulent messages are a resurgence of the infamous “Hi Mum” scam, which has already led to substantial financial losses for victims.
The scam starts with a seemingly innocent text supposedly from a family member using a different phone number, leveraging current summer conditions to appear timely. The deceptive message typically conveys urgency, stating, “Hi Mum, I’m feeling overheated and stressed. Please contact me on my new number – it’s urgent.”
Upon responding, the scammer pretends to be a distressed relative and eventually requests money transfer, often under the guise of an emergency situation. These scams exploit parents’ natural inclination to assist their children by inducing panic and prompting swift actions without verifying the authenticity of the request.
If you receive such a message, refrain from replying. Instead, reach out to your family member using their known phone number to confirm their safety. Report any suspicious texts promptly to prevent others from falling victim to the scam.
In case of a suspicious message:
– Avoid responding.
– Contact your loved one using their usual phone number.
– Forward the suspicious text to 7726, the UK’s spam reporting service.
While the scam may appear obvious in hindsight, it has duped numerous individuals, particularly those less familiar with technology. The emotional manipulation in these messages often constructs a plausible narrative that coerces victims into making financial transactions without validation.
The financial impact of the scam is substantial, with Action Fraud reporting losses exceeding £220,000 from “Hi Mum” scams in the UK between 2023 and 2025. To stay safe, exercise caution with any unexpected message purporting to be from a family member. Always verify their identity through a trusted communication channel before taking any action.