Police Warn of Surge in ‘Hi Mum/Dad’ Text Scam Targeting Hampshire Residents

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Fraud Safeguarding Team has issued a renewed warning to residents about a surge in fraudulent text messages pretending to be from family members.

The scam, dubbed the “Hi Mum/Dad” con, involves criminals sending messages to unsuspecting parents, posing as their adult children. The texts often claim the sender has lost or damaged their phone and urgently needs money transferred to a new bank account. In many cases, victims — believing they are helping their child — send hundreds or even thousands of pounds, only to later discover they have been tricked.

Police are urging the public to follow Home Office advice: Stop! Think Fraud before sending money. Officers recommend verifying any unexpected request for funds by contacting the person directly via a trusted phone number or another communication method.

If you’ve been targeted:
• Report fraud to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at www.actionfraud.police.uk
• If a crime is in progress, or you feel in immediate danger, call 999
• Victim support is available via Hampshire Victim Care Hub on 0808 178 1641
• Anonymous reports can be made through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Residents are urged to share this warning with friends, neighbours, and family members to help prevent further victims.

For more safety advice or to report non-urgent incidents, visit the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary website.