A Chinese-speaking cyber-criminal group named “Smishing Triad” has been observed conducting a large-scale smishing campaign targeting US citizens.
The group uses iMessage to send package-tracking text scams, aiming to collect personally identifying information (PII) and payment credentials for identity theft and credit card fraud.
https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/smishing-triad-china-fraud-network/
yeah it's aimed to catch folk who might not be "clued" in
thing with this is it's i-MSG only that will trick a lot also
sorry to hear about your mum though :(