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The NSW Police Force has issued a warning about the recent surge of “Hi Mum” text scams in New South Wales.
The scam involves someone impersonating a teenager and sending a text asking for help, claiming they are kidnapped and held for drug money.
Victims receive text messages claiming that their son or daughter has been kidnapped and held for ransom. The messages say their child’s phone is broken, so they text from a friend’s phone.
ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard warns the public to be vigilant if they receive a similar message.
“Scammers will stop at nothing to get your personal details or money, and this scam is designed to pull your heartstrings,” she said.
“It’s important to stop and think if you get a message… because chances are it’s not your family member or friend – it’s a scammer.”
Once they have gained the victim’s trust, the scammer will get personal information or money for a new phone.
“If you’re contacted by someone claiming to be your son, daughter, relative, or friend, start by calling them on the number already stored in your phone to confirm if it’s no longer in use. If they pick up – you know it’s a scam,” Rickard said.
Australians have already lost more than $2.6 million due to these text scams since they first appeared in January 2022, with most cases recorded in June and July 2022.
The report also claimed that women over 55 had been the primary target of around two-thirds of family impersonation scams.
Anyone who believes they may have recently been a victim of a similar scam is encouraged by the ACCC to report it to scamwatch.gov.
By being aware of this scam and taking preventive measures, people can help protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim to this cruel and costly scam.
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