Stay alert: The “Hi Mum” scam

The “Hi Mum” scam, also known as the “family impersonation” scam, has been around for a while but continues to catch people off guard. This persistent scam preys on kindness and trust, often leaving victims feeling deceived and frustrated.

According to the ACCC’s Scamwatch, more than 1,150 Australians fell victim to this scam in 2024 alone, with reported losses totaling $2.6 million*. The ongoing nature of this scam highlights the importance of staying vigilant when responding to unexpected messages from someone claiming to be a loved one in need of urgent help.

How the scam works

The scam typically starts with a message on WhatsApp or via text that says something like, “Hi Mum, it’s me. I’ve got a new phone number.” Once the scammer has gained your trust, they fabricate a crisis - such as needing money for urgent car repairs or medical bills - and request a bank transfer. The sense of urgency and emotional appeal can make these messages incredibly convincing.

A real-life example

Recently, one of our customers was contacted by a scammer pretending to be a relative. After a believable text exchange, the scammer requested funds for urgent car repairs. Trusting the message, our customer transferred approximately $5,000 in two payments. Despite fraud triggers being activated, the funds could not be recovered.

Who is targeted?

This scam often targets women and older Australians, with Scamwatch reporting that over 80% of victims are aged 55 or older*. Scammers exploit trust and emotional connections, making it especially important to approach such messages with caution.

Protect yourself

Here’s how you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the “Hi Mum” scam:

• Verify the message: If you receive a message claiming to be from a loved one with a new number, call the number you already have saved to verify their story.
• Ask personal questions: If you can’t get in touch through your usual method, ask questions only the person would know the answers to. Scammers won’t be able to respond accurately.
• Don’t rush: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly. Take a moment to double-check before sending money.
• Be cautious with money transfers: Never transfer money unless you are absolutely certain of the recipient’s identity.
• Contact us for help: If you’re unsure about a message or transfer request, reach out to us at Coastline or call 1300 361 066. We’re here to help, and no question is too small.

We’re here to support you

Scams like these are upsetting, but they’re also preventable with awareness and caution. If you think you’ve been targeted or have any doubts about a request, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d much rather help you stay safe than see you fall victim to a scam.

For more information on scams and how to report them, visit the ACCC Scamwatch website.

Together, we can protect our community by staying informed and vigilant against scams like the “Hi Mum” scheme.