Experts in the UK are warning WhatsApp users about a recurring scam known as the “Hi mum” threat. This deceptive scheme has already cost many individuals significant amounts of money by tricking them into believing that a family member is in need of financial assistance.

The scam typically begins with a message that starts with “Hi mum” or “Hi dad,” leading the victim to engage in a conversation where the fraudsters claim to have lost their phone and request money for a new one. This tactic has proven to be highly lucrative for cybercriminals, highlighting the importance of staying vigilant.

To raise awareness and prevent more WhatsApp users from falling victim to this scam, Action Fraud has issued a reminder urging individuals to be cautious. They advise users to verify the identity of anyone making unusual financial requests on WhatsApp by contacting them outside of the app.

Additionally, Action Fraud emphasizes the importance of blocking suspicious messages and reporting any suspected instances of this scam. Users are encouraged to report spam messages within WhatsApp and notify Action Fraud if they have been defrauded.

The key takeaway is clear: if you receive a message from an unfamiliar number, refrain from responding. Always verify the sender’s identity by reaching out to them through a different channel, such as a phone call, to confirm the legitimacy of the message. Stay alert and protect yourself from falling prey to online scams.