"Hi Mum" WhatsApp message from a new number
A message from an unknown number claims to be your son or daughter with a new phone, asking for money.
How this scam works
A WhatsApp message arrives from a number you do not recognise: "Hi Mum, I dropped my phone down the loo, this is my new number." The conversation is friendly and natural. After a little chat, there is a problem. They cannot log in to their banking on the new phone, and a bill has to be paid today. Could you pay it and they will sort it out tomorrow?
The amounts are usually between £500 and £2,000. The reason is always something that cannot wait and cannot be checked.
This works because it uses the one relationship where you do not want to stop and verify. Real families are happy to prove who they are.
Warning signs
- A new, unknown number claiming to be a family member
- They cannot take a phone call ("the microphone is broken on the new phone")
- Urgency, with a payment needed today
- The bank details are not a name you recognise
What to do
- Ring the number you already have saved for them. Do not reply to the new one.
- Ask something only they would know, like the name of a pet from childhood.
- Insist on hearing their voice before sending anything.
- Forward the text to 7726 (free on all UK networks), then delete it.
If it has already happened to you
This happens to sensible, careful people every day. What matters now is acting quickly.
- Contact your bank immediately if you sent money.
- Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at actionfraud.police.uk.
- Report the number in WhatsApp: open the chat, tap the number at the top, scroll down and tap Report.
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Check a messageLast updated 29 September 2026. Source: Action Fraud.