Scammers are employing a deceptive “Hi mum” text to dupe unsuspecting individuals into handing over money through popular messaging apps like WhatsApp. This fraudulent scheme has resulted in significant financial losses, with millions believed to have been swindled.
The scam typically initiates with a simple message such as “Hi, mum” or “Hi, dad,” prompting victims to engage. Subsequently, scammers employ coercive tactics to pressure individuals into making immediate payments without considering the authenticity of the request.
Adding to the concern is the integration of AI technology in the scam. Scammers can now generate voice messages that mimic the voice of a distressed family member, heightening the credibility of the scam.
Chris Ainsley, head of fraud risk management at Santander, highlighted the use of AI voice impersonation technology in crafting WhatsApp and SMS voice notes to enhance the scam’s realism. He advised individuals to verify any unexpected money requests on social or messaging platforms by directly contacting the purported sender.
Security experts caution users against responding to messages soliciting money or beginning with “Hi mum,” emphasizing that scammers exploit emotions rather than technical vulnerabilities. Luis Corrons, a Security Evangelist at Norton, explained that these messages leverage trust, urgency, and love to manipulate individuals’ responses.
To mitigate the risk of falling victim to such scams, Norton has outlined five crucial tips for safeguarding oneself and loved ones:
1. Reach out to the supposed sender directly through a known contact number to verify the authenticity of the message.
2. Be cautious if messages using generic greetings like “Hi Mum” seem detached from the usual communication style of the sender.
3. Exercise skepticism when faced with financial emergencies in messages, and validate the situation before acting.
4. Establish a unique code word within your family to confirm identity during urgent situations.
5. Stay informed about evolving scams and ensure your device is shielded with reputable security software.
By staying vigilant and implementing these preventive measures, individuals can fortify their defenses against fraudulent schemes like the “Hi mum” scam on messaging platforms.