Scam checker · The Calm Tech

Is this “Hi Mum” (lost phone) text a scam?

A message from a number you don’t recognise says it’s your son or daughter — they’ve lost their phone, this is their new number, and they need money or a bill paid urgently. It’s a cruel, common scam. Here’s how to be sure.

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What this scam looks like

⚠️ Example of a scam message“Hi Mum, I dropped my phone in the sink and I’m on a temporary number. I can’t log in to my banking — could you pay a bill for me today? I’ll pay you back tonight x”

The tell-tale signs

It comes from a new or unknown number, claiming to be a family member.
They can’t take a call “right now” (because a real voice would give them away).
There’s an urgent need for money or a bill paid, and a promise to repay soon.
They ask you to keep it quick, or not to mention it to anyone.

What to do

Ring your family member on their real, saved number — not the new one that texted you.
Ask something only they would know before doing anything.
Never send money or pay a bill based on a text alone.
If it’s a scam, block the number and report it at scamwatch.gov.au.

Not sure about a message you’ve got?

Check it free with the Tech Helper

Show it the message and it’ll tell you honestly whether it looks like a scam, and exactly what to do. Free, calm, and there’s a real person — me — behind it if you’re still unsure.

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The three rules that stop almost every scam

If they rush you, it’s a scam. Real companies never hurry you. "Act now", "your account will be locked today", "final notice" — that pressure is the tell.
Never use the door they give you. Don’t tap the link or ring the number in the message. Go in your own way — open the official app yourself, or ring the number on the back of your card.
Your codes are yours. Full stop. Those six-digit text codes are keys to your accounts. No genuine company will ever ask you to read one out.

Common questions

My child really might have lost their phone — how do I check?

Call their normal saved number first. If someone answers, you’ve got your answer. If it truly is them on a new number, they won’t mind a quick check — ask a question only they could answer before sending anything.

Been caught, or worried your details are out there? You’re not alone, and there’s no shame in it. Report a scam at scamwatch.gov.au, and for identity help call IDCARE free on 1800 595 160. And if you’d like a patient hand, leave your number and I’ll call you back.