All WhatsApp users placed on red alert - delete 'dangerous' new message now

Anyone who regularly uses WhatsApp - or rival text message platforms - must keep an eye out for the resurgence of a worrying attack. It appears that scammers are back and trying to steal money using the devastating "Hi mum" text. For those not aware, this highly successful scam attempts to trick victims into handing over money to someone they believe is a loved one in trouble.

It has certainly paid off for the online thieves, with millions thought to have been lost to the tactic.

The threat usually starts with a very simple text that just says, "Hi, mum" or "Hi dad". As soon as the victim responds, the online thieves then attempt to trick them into handing over money with pressure tactics used to force payments before people have a chance to consider what they are doing.

Making things even more worrying is the use of AI. Scammers can now create voice messages which sound just like the family member in need. These are then used to increase the chances of an attack being successful.

"We’re hearing of instances where AI voice impersonation technology is being used to create WhatsApp and SMS voice notes, making the scam seem ever more realistic," Chris Ainsley, Santander's head of fraud risk management, explained.

“If you’re ever asked for money out of the blue on any social or communication platform, verify the request by picking up the phone.”

Security experts are also warning users to be wary before replying to any messages that ask for money or begin with "Hi mum".

"Scammers aren’t hacking devices, they’re hacking emotions," Luis Corrons, Security Evangelist at Norton explained.

"These 'Hi Mum' messages weaponise trust, urgency and love. And that makes them more dangerous than any malware. This scam works not because parents are careless, but because they care.

"When you get a message from your child saying they’re in trouble, your first instinct is to help. Scammers know that and exploit it."

Norton has also now announced five vital tips on how you can protect yourself and your loved ones from these attacks.

Check them out below and please stay alert.

• Contact them in person: Reach out to your child using the number you already know. This can quickly reveal whether something is off.

• Be careful with generic language: If a message starts with "Hi Mum" or "Hi Dad" and sounds impersonal or unlike your child’s usual tone, be cautious.

• Question financial emergencies: Emotional pressure is common in these scams. Stay calm and verify the situation before making any decisions.

• Consider a safe word: Agree on a word with your family that can be used to confirm identity in urgent situations.

• Stay up to date: Learn about emerging scams and make sure your phone is protected with trusted security software.