WhatsApp 'Hi Mom' fraud: what to do and how to reclaim your money

You get a WhatsApp message: 'Hi Mom/Dad, I have a new number', and shortly afterwards a request to quickly transfer a bill because their online banking supposedly is not working? This is one of the most common scams. Here is how to react correctly.

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Your chances of getting your money back

Not transferred yet? Then nothing has happened. Call the person on their OLD number that you know and check.

Already transferred? Call your bank IMMEDIATELY and ask for a recall of the transfer; the faster the better.

What you should do now

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1. Do not pay under pressure
Real relatives do not push like this. Do not let yourself be rushed, no matter how urgent it sounds.
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2. Double-check via the known number
Call the real person on their old number, do not write or call via the new one.
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3. Already paid? Call your bank
Demand a recall of the transfer immediately, while the money has not yet been forwarded.
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4. Secure evidence and file a complaint
Save screenshots of the chat and the number, file a criminal complaint and report or block the number in WhatsApp.

How to spot the scam

A 'new number' and shortly afterwards an urgent request for money.
An excuse that their own online banking is not working right now, so you should pay for them.
Strong pressure to hurry, with questions being unwelcome.

Frequently asked questions

How do I recognize the 'Hi Mom' scam?

Typical: a child's supposed new number, then a quick urgent request for money with the excuse that their own banking is not working. Always call back on the old, familiar number.

I already transferred, will I get the money back?

Call your bank immediately and ask for a recall of the transfer. If the money has not yet been forwarded, it can work. Also file a complaint.

Should I reply to the number?

No. Do not keep writing, do not pay, check via the known old number and report the fraud number in WhatsApp.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.