An urgent alert has been issued to millions of UK smartphone owners, warning them to watch out for a worrying new text message that could cost them dearly if ignored. The scam, which uses an old trick that remains hugely popular with fraudsters, is circulating among iPhone and Android users.
Heatwave Hook Used in Latest Scam
As spotted by the team at Report Fraud, UK users are receiving texts that suggest family members are struggling in the recent hot weather. The message typically reads: "Hi mum, I’m so hot and stressed. Mum, please text me on (new number) it's urgent." Once the victim responds, cyber criminals may ask for money to be sent to an account. This type of scam is often highly effective, as parents hand over cash out of worry for their children.
How to Protect Yourself
It is vital that everyone stays alert and thinks twice before replying to unexpected messages. If you receive such a text, call the family member's actual number from your contacts to verify they are safe. Then report the message immediately to help stop others being targeted. The following three rules are recommended:
- Don’t reply
- Contact your loved one on their usual number
- Forward suspicious texts to 7726
Previous Incidents and Financial Impact
This is not the first time scammers have used the infamous "Hi mum" text trick. The threat usually starts with a simple message saying "Hi, mum" or "Hi dad." Once the victim responds, online thieves pretend to be a family member in trouble and pressure them into sending money. According to Action Fraud, over £220,000 was lost in the UK alone between 2023 and 2025 to ‘Hi Mum’ attacks.
Stay Vigilant
While the tactic may sound far-fetched, millions of pounds have been handed over to hackers using this approach, which is designed to feel trustworthy. The follow-up texts pile on the urgency to get people to act before they think twice. Beware, stay alert, and think twice before replying to a message.
