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Beware the “Hi Mum” Text Scam: How to Spot and Avoid This Emotional Trick

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A disturbing new scam is preying on parents’ love for their children—and it starts with just two words: “Hi Mum” or “Hi Dad.”

This heartless fraud has already stolen millions from families worldwide. Here’s how it works, how to spot it, and how to protect yourself.

📱 How the “Hi Mum” Scam Works

Step 1: The Fake Emergency Text

You receive a message from an unknown number claiming to be your child:

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

Step 2: Building Trust

The scammer avoids using names (so they can target many parents at once):

“It’s me, your son.”
“I’m in trouble and need money fast.”

Step 3: The Urgent Money Request

Once they gain trust, they demand payment via:

Bank transfers
Gift cards (Amazon, Google Play, Steam)
Cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, etc.)

Common excuses:

“I need bail money—please don’t tell anyone!”
“I lost my wallet and can’t pay rent!”

Step 4: Disappearing Act

After receiving the money, they block you—leaving victims heartbroken and out of pocket.

🚨 Why This Scam Is So Effective

✔ Exploits parental instinct to protect children
✔ Creates urgency to bypass logical thinking
✔ Avoids phone calls (which would reveal a fake voice)
✔ Often targets older parents less familiar with scams

Real-Life Impact:

A UK mother lost £5,000 after believing her “son” was jailed abroad.
In Australia, one family sent $8,000 before realizing it was a scam.

🔍 How to Spot a Fake “Hi Mum” Text

Red Flags:

🚩 New number (no prior texts from this contact)
🚩 Vague language (avoids using names/details)
🚩 Urgent financial requests (wire transfers, gift cards)
🚩 Refusal to call or video chat

How to Verify:

Call your child’s REAL number immediately.
Ask a personal question only they’d know.
Check for typos or odd phrasing (scammers often use translation tools).

🛡️ How to Protect Yourself & Your Family

1. Set Up a Family Code Word

Agree on a secret word or phrase only your family knows.
Example: “If it’s really you, tell me our dog’s nickname.”

2. Warn Older Relatives

Seniors are most vulnerable—explain the scam to them.

3. Slow Down & Verify

Never rush to send money.
Call back on a known number.

4. Report Suspicious Texts

UK: Forward to 7726 (SPAM reporting)
US: Report to FTC.gov/complaint
Australia: Report to Scamwatch.gov.au

📌 What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

Contact your bank immediately (some transfers can be reversed).
File a police report (helps track scammers).
Change passwords (in case of broader identity theft).

💡 Final Thought: Spread Awareness

This scam preys on love and fear—but knowledge is the best defense. Share this with family and friends to keep them safe.

🔎 Have you encountered this scam? Share your story below to help others!

ScamAlert #HiMumScam #CyberSecurity #ProtectYourFamily