Beware the ‘Mum and Dad’ WhatsApp Scam Sweeping West Yorkshire
West Yorkshire Police are sounding the alarm after a spike in a nasty new scam targeting worried parents. Dubbed the ‘mum and dad fraud,’ con artists send fake text or WhatsApp messages pretending to be their children. The trick? Claiming they’ve changed their number due to an emergency and urgently need cash sent over—fast.
How the Scam Unfolds
- Victims get a message from a supposed son or daughter, explaining they lost or damaged their phone.
- The fraudster then asks for money, often claiming it’s to pay a bill or debt.
- Amounts requested can be as high as £3,000, with promises the money will be returned.
- Instead, the cash lands straight in a criminal’s account—often impossible to recover.
Police Issue Vital Warning
Detective Inspector James Humphreys from West Yorkshire Police’s Economic Crime Unit called the scam “particularly cruel.” He said:
“This makes worried parents believe their children are in financial trouble, playing on their concern to steal money.”
DI Humphreys urged families to spread the word to protect loved ones:
“If you get a suspicious message like this, always contact your family member using their usual number before sending any money. Don’t trust the text—speak to them directly.”
What To Do If You’re Targeted
If you think you’ve been hit by this fraud, report it immediately to Action Fraud. Call 0300 123 2040 or go online to www.actionfraud.police.uk. Remember: stay alert, verify requests, and never rush to send cash without confirming who’s really texting you.
