# Beware of the 'Hi Mum' WhatsApp Scam: How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
## What Is the 'Hi Mum' Scam?
A new type of fraud is targeting parents and friends through WhatsApp, where scammers impersonate loved ones to steal money. The message often starts with a simple greeting like **"Hi Mum"** or **"Hi Dad"**, followed by a request for urgent financial help.
## How the Scam Works
1. **The Initial Contact** – The scammer pretends to be a family member or close friend, claiming they’ve lost their phone or changed their number.
2. **The Urgent Request** – They ask for money to cover an emergency, such as a hospital bill or a lost wallet.
3. **The Pressure Tactics** – Victims are rushed into sending money before realizing it’s a scam.
## How to Spot and Avoid This Scam
- **Verify the Sender** – Call the person directly on their known number to confirm the request.
- **Check for Odd Language** – Scammers often use unusual phrasing or spelling mistakes.
- **Never Rush to Send Money** – Legitimate emergencies won’t pressure you into immediate payment.
## What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
- **Report It** – Contact your bank immediately and report the fraud to Action Fraud (UK) or your local cybercrime unit.
- **Warn Others** – Share the scam details with friends and family to prevent further victims.
Staying vigilant and verifying unexpected requests can help protect you from falling victim to this growing scam.
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