The message often begins casually: “Hi Mum,” “Hi Dad” or “I have a new phone.” It then introduces an urgent bill, broken device or banking problem.
Warning signs
- A familiar person is writing from an unfamiliar number.
- They cannot speak on the telephone.
- They need a transfer, gift card or payment urgently.
- They ask you not to contact anybody else.
- The account name or payment recipient is unfamiliar.
Check another way
- Do not send money from the conversation.
- Call the relative on the number you already have.
- If they do not answer, contact another family member.
- Ask a question only the genuine person is likely to answer.
A family verification phrase can make these requests easier to check. Agree it in person and do not store it beside the contact name.
If you paid
Contact your bank immediately, preserve the messages and report the account inside WhatsApp. Then use the official fraud-reporting route for your part of the UK.