SCAM TO BE AWARE OF...

We’re seeing a rise in fake text messages where scammers pretend to be a loved one, such as a son or daughter, and claiming they’ve changed their phone number and need help. These messages can feel very real and are designed to pressure you into sending money.

🚨 What the Scam Looks Like

- A message begins with “Hi Mum…” or “Hi Dad…”  

- They say they’ve got a new phone and their old one is lost or broken  

- They claim they can’t access their online banking  

- They ask for urgent financial help, often using emotional language like:  

  “I’m stressed… embarrassed… in trouble…”

🛑 What You Should Do

- Do not reply to the message  

- Do not send any money  

- Call your child on their usual number to check they’re safe  

- Forward the scam text to 7726 (free spam-reporting service)  

- Contact your bank immediately if you’ve already made a payment  

📣 Help Protect Others

Please share this warning with friends, family, neighbours, and especially anyone who may be more vulnerable to scams. The more people who know about this tactic, the harder it is for criminals to succeed.

Thank you,

Chad Carrington