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Britons have been warned of a fast-evolving scam on messaging platforms like WhatsApp, SMS, and iMessage, tricking parents into handing over thousands of pounds.
The scam started with an innocent-looking message, such as “Hi Mum, I’ve lost my phone.” Now, fraudsters are also using AI-generated voice notes to impersonate children or loved ones in distress, creating a convincing illusion of an emergency. Norton, a leader in cybersecurity, says the con artists aren’t just breaking into devices – they’re breaking into emotions. Luis Corrons, security evangelist at Norton, said: “Scammers aren’t hacking devices, they’re hacking emotions. These ‘Hi Mum’ messages weaponise trust, urgency and love. And that makes them more dangerous than any malware.”
These messages often escalate quickly, with follow-up texts claiming urgent financial needs such as lost wallets, emergency bills, or accidents. The scammers count on parents reacting emotionally and acting before verifying the identity of the person they’re messaging with.
Mr Corrons added: “This scam works not because parents are careless, but because they care.
“When you get a message from your child saying they’re in trouble, your first instinct is to help. Scammers know that and exploit it.”
Norton’s cybersecurity team shared several practical steps families can take to stay protected:
- Contact directly: Call your child using a known number before sending money or sensitive information
- Watch for impersonal tone: Messages that feel off or use generic phrases like “Hi Mum” could be red flags.
- Pause before reacting: Scammers thrive on urgency. Take a moment to assess the situation.
- Use a family ‘safe word’: A pre-agreed word or phrase can be used to confirm identity in emergencies.
- Stay informed: Learn about new scams and ensure devices are protected with up-to-date security software.
