NatWest has issued an urgent warning to its millions of customers across the UK as a sophisticated and emotionally manipulative scam experiences a dangerous resurgence. The 'Hi Mum' or 'Hi Dad' text message fraud is tricking parents into handing over thousands of pounds to criminals pretending to be their children.
How the Heartless Scam Works
The fraud typically begins with a simple text message. Posing as a son or daughter, the scammer sends a text saying something like, "Hi Mum, I've lost my phone. This is my new number." This initial message is designed to establish contact and create a sense of trust.
After a brief conversation to lower the victim's guard, the scammer then creates a fake crisis. They will claim they have an urgent bill to pay, have lost their wallet, or need money to replace a broken phone, playing on a parent's instinct to help.
Why This Scam is So Effective
According to NatWest's fraud experts, this scam is particularly effective because it exploits emotional vulnerability. "The criminals are experts at creating a sense of panic and urgency," a bank spokesperson explained. "They pressure the victim to act quickly, preventing them from taking a moment to verify the story."
The fraudsters often claim they cannot speak on the phone, inventing excuses like being "in a meeting" or having "poor signal," to avoid detection of their voice.
Protect Yourself: NatWest's Essential Advice
NatWest is urging all customers to be vigilant and follow these crucial steps to protect themselves:
- Verify Independently: If you receive a message like this, always call your child or relative on their original, known number to confirm the story. Do not use the number provided in the suspicious text.
- Ask a Personal Question: Pose a question that only your real family member would know the answer to, such as the name of a family pet or a specific shared memory.
- Be Wary of Urgency: Scammers always create a false deadline. Be highly suspicious of any request for money that is presented as an immediate emergency.
- Never Transfer to a New Account: A genuine request from a family member will almost never involve sending money to an account you don't recognise.
If you suspect you have been targeted, the bank advises customers to contact them immediately and report the incident to Action Fraud.
