How to Avoid Scams When Using AI at Home

Scammers are using AI — and it is making their tricks more convincing. Older adults can stay safe by knowing what to watch for.

The new tricks AI makes possible

Voice cloning. Scammers can copy a voice from a short video and pretend to be your grandchild, asking for money in an emergency.

Perfect grammar. Old scam emails were full of mistakes. AI now writes flawless messages that look legitimate.

Fake faces and photos. AI can create realistic pictures of people who do not exist.

The rules that still protect you

Technology changes, but the core defenses do not:

1. Slow down. Scams depend on urgency. Anything urgent is a red flag — take a breath.
2. Hang up and call back. If a "family member" calls in crisis, hang up and call their usual number.
3. Never share codes or passwords. No legitimate company will ask for a verification code or password over the phone.
4. Verify with a human you trust. Before sending money or personal information, check with a family member.
5. Remember: government agencies do not call demanding gift cards or wire transfers. Ever.

A family code word

A simple, powerful defense: agree on a family code word. If a caller claiming to be family cannot say it, you know it is a scam.

What to do if something feels wrong

• Hang up or delete the message
• Do not click links or open attachments you did not expect
• Talk it over with someone you trust before acting

Build your defenses once, with help

Strong passwords, updated devices, spam filters, and caller ID screening stop most scams before they reach you. That protective setup is part of every Garrison AI Consulting™ home technology assessment — so you can use technology with confidence.