UK smartphone users are being cautioned to remain vigilant and beware of a concerning new text message circulating on devices. These recent fraudulent messages are a resurgence of the well-known “Hi Mum” scam, which has already caused victims substantial financial losses.
The scam typically initiates with a seemingly innocent text from a supposed family member using a new phone number, leveraging current weather conditions to create a sense of urgency. An example message might say, “Hi Mum, I’m feeling overwhelmed by the heat. Please message me on my new number – it’s urgent.”
Upon responding, the scammer impersonates a distressed family member and eventually requests money, often under the guise of an emergency. These scams are effective as they exploit parents’ natural inclination to assist their children, inducing panic and prompting quick action before doubts arise about the authenticity of the appeal.
If you receive such a message, refrain from replying. Instead, contact your family member through their established phone number to confirm their safety. Should you suspect a scam, promptly report the text to prevent others from falling victim.
In case of a suspicious message:
– Avoid responding directly.
– Reach out to your loved one using their usual contact number.
– Forward the dubious text to 7726, the UK’s spam reporting service.
While the scam may appear obvious in retrospect, its emotional manipulation has ensnared numerous individuals, especially those less familiar with technology. The convincing narratives in these messages often pressure victims into sending money without verifying the legitimacy of the situation.
The financial impact of these scams is substantial, with Action Fraud reporting over £220,000 lost to “Hi Mum” scams in the UK between 2023 and 2025. To safeguard against such schemes, exercise caution with any unexpected messages purportedly from family members. Always verify the sender’s identity through a trusted communication method before taking any action.
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