Consumer experts are warning parents about a significant increase in 'hi mum' message scams on WhatsApp and other platforms. The scam involves fraudsters impersonating grown-up children, claiming to have lost their phones and needing financial help.
Action Fraud reported 1,235 reports of the scam between February 3 and June 21 this year, with total financial losses amounting to £1.5 million. The scam is on the rise, according to experts.
Which? first became aware of the scam in late 2021 when a victim reported that a fraudster impersonating his sister had a convincing conversation leading to a money transfer for 'car repairs'. In some cases, fraudsters have accessed chat history to appear more convincing.
The scam has also moved to text messages. One example reads: 'Hello mum, I’ve broken my phone and I’m using a friends old one. I need to talk its urgent can you text me on WhatsApp on my new number please.' Another says: 'Hi mum I’m texting you off a friends phone I’ve smashed mine and their phones about to die, can you WhatsApp my new number please.'
Experts advise not to transfer money immediately if you receive such a message. Instead, ask for the person's name, call them, or request a voice note. WhatsApp recommends enabling two-factor authentication and never sharing your six-digit pin code.
If you receive a suspicious text, forward it to 7726 and block the number. If you have transferred money, contact your bank immediately and report the scam to Action Fraud. On WhatsApp, block and report the number.
