If you just received a message that says “Hi Mom” or “Hi Dad” from an unknown number — it’s almost certainly a scam.

Here’s how to confirm it’s fake:

🔎 Quick Scam-Check List

✅ The message comes from a new number you don’t recognize
✅ The sender says their phone is broken or lost
✅ They refuse to call or video chat
✅ They ask for money, gift cards, or crypto
✅ The message feels urgent or emotional (“please don’t tell anyone!”)

If any of these apply, stop and verify before replying.

What to do next:

1. Call your child’s real number — even if they “say” they can’t answer.
2. Ask a question only your real child would know.
3. Never send money to a number you don’t recognize.

💡 If it feels off, it probably is. Real family emergencies rarely happen over text alone.

📱 How the “Hi Mom” Scam Works

Step 1: The Fake Emergency Text

Scammers open with emotional hooks like:

“Hi Mom, my phone broke — this is my new number.”
“Dad, I need help urgently. Can you text me here?”

Step 2: Building False Trust

They’ll say vague things like:

“It’s me, your son.”
“I’m in trouble but can’t talk right now.”

Step 3: The Urgent Money Request

They ask for quick payments through wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency:

“My rent is overdue — I’ll be evicted!”
“I need bail money — please don’t tell anyone!”

Step 4: The Disappearing Act

After receiving the money, they block you and disappear.

🚨 Why This Scam Works So Well

✔ Exploits parental instinct to protect children
✔ Uses panic and urgency to override logic
✔ Avoids calls or video chats that could expose them
✔ Targets older parents less tech-savvy about scams

Real-World Cases:

• A UK mother lost £5,000 after believing her “son” was in jail abroad.
• A U.S. family sent $15,000 before realizing it was a scam.

🔍 How to Recognize a Fake “Hi Mom” Text

Red Flags:

🚩 New number with no chat history
🚩 Vague wording — no names or personal details
🚩 Pressure to send money fast
🚩 Refusal to confirm identity via call or video

How to Verify:

✅ Call your child’s real number immediately
✅ Ask a personal question only they’d know
✅ Watch for odd grammar or phrases (translation tools often leave clues)

🛡️ How to Protect Your Family

1. Set Up a Family Code Word

Create a secret word or phrase your family uses in real emergencies.

Example: “If it’s really you, tell me Grandma’s cat’s name.”

2. Warn Older Relatives

Explain the scam to parents and grandparents. They are prime targets.

3. Slow Down Before Sending Money

Scammers thrive on panic. Pause, verify, and think.

4. Report Suspicious Texts

• UK: Forward to 7726 (SPAM reporting)
• US: Report at FTC.gov/complaint

📌 What to Do If You’ve Already Been Scammed

1. Contact your bank immediately. Some transactions can still be reversed.
2. File a police report. It helps authorities track these crimes.
3. Change your passwords and monitor accounts for suspicious activity.

💡 Final Thought: Awareness Stops Scams

This scam thrives on emotion — but knowledge is power.
Share this article with family and friends, especially older relatives, to keep them safe.