Why the "Hi Mum!" scam is still out there

A few years ago, I started getting the odd text from a random number that began with “Hi Mum” or “Hi Dad.” The message usually said something like “My phone’s broken – this is my new number.” Then, not long after, came the request: “I need money urgently. Can you help?”

That’s the “Hi Mum” scam in a nutshell. Scammers pretend to be your child or another loved one using a new number and a fake emergency. They exploit your emotions—your instinct to help—before you have a chance to think it through.

Obviously, I didn't fall for the scam. My kids are 8 and 11 and don't own phones.

The scams have a high hit rate because cross generational texting is often stilted and unnatural. I'm so used to my well spoken mother texting me "OMG!" and "Ru having a good time?" that I wouldn't think twice if a scammer sent me a message from her that didn't sound like her.

The scam was first reported in Australia in 2022, but it’s still going strong. Last year alone, reports to cyber support service IDCARE about the “Hi Mum” scam jumped by nearly 40%.

Why? Because it still works. Parents panic. Hearts take over before heads can catch up.

So, what can we do?

• Don’t trust unknown numbers – even if the message “sounds” right.

• Always call the original number – the one you already have saved.

• Don’t rush – urgency is a tactic. Pause, breathe, and think.

• Set up a family “code word” – something only family members know, for real emergencies.

• Talk about it – not just once. Remind each other. Keep the warnings fresh.

  
  

You’re not stupid.

You’re just human—and scammers are banking on that.