Suffolk residents are being warned of a new scam targeting victims using WhatsApp.

Trading Standards said criminals are beginning the conversation with 'Hello Mum' or 'Hello Dad' and will say that they are texting from a new mobile number as their phone was lost or damaged. 

The criminal will then asked for money to purchase a new one or claim that they need money urgently to pay a bill before providing bank details for the payment to be made to. 

In some circumstances, the victim receives further messages demanding more money.

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It is one of the latest scams to target victims in Suffolk following similar text message fraud claiming a person was eligible for Jobseekers Allowance or had to pay a parking fine.

A spokesman for Trading Standards said: "If you receive a message like this from a friend or family member, don't send any money until you've had a chance to call them and confirm their identity. 

"Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe."

Scam messages can be reported directly to WhatsApp and by forwarding the message for free to 7726.