Beware of Phone Messages Claiming to Be from Family or Friends

In recent months, there has been a significant surge in "Hi Mum" scams, prompting Scamwatch to issue a warning to the public. These scams involve phone messages from individuals impersonating family members or friends and claiming to be in need of help. It's crucial to exercise caution and remain on guard against these deceptive tactics.

Alarming Statistics: The Impact of "Hi Mum" Scams

The numbers speak for themselves: over 1,150 Australians have fallen victim to the "Hi Mum" scam in the first seven months of this year alone, resulting in reported losses totaling $2.6 million.

The majority of these incidents were reported in June and July of 2022, making it clear that the threat is real and growing.

How the Scam Operates

The perpetrators of "Hi Mum" scams typically target victims through platforms like WhatsApp, posing as a family member or friend. They begin by claiming to have lost or damaged their phone and reaching out from a new number. Gradually, they establish a rapport with their targets, eventually requesting personal information such as photos for their social media profiles or money for urgent bills, contractors, or phone replacements.

To maintain the illusion of a lost or broken phone, scammers often justify their demands by stating that they can't access their online banking temporarily. Some messages may contain a simple "it's me," while others go a step further by using the impersonated person's name and having access to their contact information.

Warning Signs and Protective Measures

Delia Rickard, Deputy Chair of the ACCC, emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant and taking necessary precautions. She advises recipients of suspicious messages from unknown numbers claiming to be family members or friends to independently verify the contact. One way to do this is by calling the person on their existing phone number stored in your phone. If they answer, it's a clear indication of a scam.

If unable to establish contact, Ms. Rickard recommends trying alternate methods of verification, such as asking a personal question that only the real person would know the answer to. Above all else, she stresses the need to exercise extreme caution before sending money to anyone.

Targeting the Vulnerable: Protecting Women and Older Australians

Disturbingly, these heartless scammers tend to target women and older Australians. Reports indicate that over two-thirds of family impersonation scams were reported by women over the age of 55, resulting in losses exceeding $1.4 million. To combat this growing issue, it is crucial to raise awareness and provide support to those who may be targeted.

Reporting Scams and Seeking Assistance

If you suspect that you have fallen victim to a scam or have provided personal information, it is essential to take immediate action.

Contact your bank without delay, as they can assist in tracking the money, blocking scam accounts, and preventing others from falling victim to similar schemes.

Furthermore, if you come across any type of scam, regardless of whether you have lost money, report it promptly and seek guidance from IDCARE. Their expertise can help you navigate the aftermath and mitigate any potential harm.

For more information on scams and how to protect yourself, visit the official Scamwatch website at scamwatch.gov.au. Stay informed by following @scamwatch_gov on Twitter and subscribing to Scamwatch radar alerts for the latest updates on scams circulating within the community.

(Source: Scamwatch - Australian Competition and Consumer Commission)