"New number" friend and family messages
Someone claims to be a friend or relative on a new number and soon needs help paying a bill.
Sample content for development. This profile will be reviewed by DTI before launch.
How it works
The message starts casually ('Hi Mum, this is my new number') to build trust. After a few friendly messages, there is an urgent bill or payment they can't make from their 'new phone'.
What it can look like
#+1 (555) 013-8841
Today 18:02
Hi Mum it's me, dropped my phone in the sink so this is my new number. Can you save it? Also I have a bill due today and my banking app isn't working yet, could you help?
Illustration. Names and numbers are fictional.
Warning signs
- A known contact suddenly on an unknown number
- They can't talk on the phone right now
- An urgent payment to an account in someone else's name
Common tactics
- Starting vague so you fill in the name yourself
- Excuses for why they can't call or video chat
- Pressure to pay before they 'get their banking back'
What to do
- Call the person on their old, known number before doing anything
- Ask a question only they would know the answer to
- Never send money to a new account based only on a message
Reporting
Report the message or account to the platform it came through, then report to your country's official fraud reporting service. If money or banking details are involved, contact your bank or payment provider first.