The “Hi Mum” scam: fake family emergency messages
By Trusterity · Updated 13 November 2026
It starts with a message from an unknown number: “Hi Mum, I dropped my phone, this is my new number.” A few messages later there's a bill that must be paid today.
How it plays out
- The opener. A friendly message from a new number, often on WhatsApp. No name — they let you fill it in (“Is that you, Anna?”).
- The trust bit. Small talk, an apology, a promise to call later.
- The ask. “My banking app doesn't work on the new phone. Can you pay this invoice for me? I'll pay you back tomorrow.”
- The pressure. It's urgent, it's embarrassing, please don't call — “the microphone is broken”.
What AI changes
The old version broke down when you asked for a call. Now scammers can send a voice note — or even call — with a cloned voice. The FBI's December 2024 PSA warns about short audio clips impersonating a family member in an emergency. Hearing their voice is no longer proof.
How to check in 30 seconds
- Call the old number saved in your phone. Lost phones are rarer than this scam.
- Ask your family safe word question. The real person can answer; the scammer can't.
- Never pay an invoice or a “friend's account” for someone who just changed numbers.
Sources: FBI IC3, PSA I-120324-PSA (Dec 2024).
Questions
Is the Hi Mum scam only on WhatsApp?
No. It also arrives by SMS, Telegram and other messaging apps, and increasingly with voice notes.
What if the message uses my child's name?
Names, photos and family details are often taken from social media. Check by calling the number you already have, or ask for your safe word.
Make your family safe word
Free, 2 minutes, nothing stored.