The NSW Police cybercrime squad has issued a warning to all mobile phone users to be on the lookout for the latest text-based scam.

Known as the ‘Hi Mum’ scam, unwitting users have been receiving text messages from an unknown number claiming to be their son or daughter.

The message usually states that they (the imaginary son or daughter) have lost their phone and are texting from a new number and to delete their old number.

Once the scammer has engaged the victim in conversation, the scammer usually asks their ‘parent’ to pay a bill on their behalf or to borrow money. The scammer then provides account details to transfer to.

“Victims of the ‘Hi Mum’ scam date back to at least October last year overseas, but since May, we’ve seen a significant increase in reports not just here in NSW, but jurisdictions across Australia,” says Detective Superintendent Matthew Craft told Australian Seniors News.

“If you receive a suspicious message on your mobile, particularly through social media or encrypted messaging, reach out to your relative by an alternative method of communication or call to confirm it is in fact them.

“The demographic of victims is predominately aged over 55, and sadly, many parents are falling victim because they’re simply nice people who are concerned for their child’s welfare.”

Have you received this text message before?