UK smartphone users are being warned about a concerning new text message circulating on devices. The message is a resurgence of the notorious “Hi Mum” scam, which has already led to substantial financial losses for victims.
The scam starts with a seemingly innocent text from someone claiming to be a family member using a different phone number, leveraging current weather references to appear timely. One common message reads: “Hi Mum, I’m feeling overheated and stressed. Please reach out to me on my new number – it’s urgent.”
Upon receiving a reply, the scammer pretends to be in distress and eventually requests money, often under the guise of an emergency situation. These scams are successful because they exploit parents’ instincts to assist their children, creating a sense of urgency that discourages second-guessing the authenticity of the plea.
If you encounter such a message, avoid responding and verify your loved one’s safety using their established contact information. Report the suspicious text promptly to prevent others from falling victim.
In case of a doubtful message:
– Refrain from replying.
– Contact your family member using their known phone number.
– Forward the suspicious message to 7726, the UK’s spam reporting service.
While the scam may appear obvious afterward, it has duped numerous individuals, especially those less familiar with technology. The emotional manipulation and convincing narratives often lead victims to hastily send money without confirming the legitimacy of the situation.
The impact of these scams is substantial, with over £220,000 lost to “Hi Mum” scams in the UK between 2023 and 2025, as reported by Action Fraud. It is advisable to approach unexpected messages purporting to be from family members cautiously, always verifying their identity through trusted means before taking any action.