1. “Hi Mum, my phone broke, this is my new number.” First step?
Answer: Call your child on their old number. A quick call to the old number usually reveals the scam immediately.
2. They ask you to pay a bill into someone else’s account. Why?
Answer: The money goes to an account the scammer controls. Scammers use other people’s accounts (money mules) to move stolen money.
3. True or myth: “Hi Mum” scams only target older people.
Answer: Myth. Anyone with family can be targeted. The scam works on parents, siblings and friends of every age.
4. They say they can’t talk on the phone right now. That’s:
Answer: A classic excuse — insist on calling. Scammers avoid voice calls because they’d be exposed. Real family can always find a way to talk.
5. The best family rule is:
Answer: Never send money on a message alone — always call back. Small amounts are often followed by bigger requests. A call-back rule protects everyone.
6. The message uses your child’s nickname correctly. So:
Answer: Still verify — details can come from social media. Nicknames, pets and school names are often public. Knowing them proves very little.
7. You already paid. First step?
Answer: Call your bank right away. Your bank may be able to stop the payment. The scammer won’t give it back.
8. Where do scammers usually learn family details?
Answer: Public social media posts. Public posts often reveal names, relationships, schools and routines.
9. A video call from your “daughter” freezes and then asks for money. You:
Answer: Hang up and call her known number. Real-time face swaps exist. Verify through a channel you trust.
10. Which question verifies best?
Answer: One only they would know, or your code word. Birthdays are often public. Private memories or a code word are much harder to guess.