I keep hearing about AI in the news and how it is being used in scams. I am not very tech savvy and find it confusing. What should I know in order to protect myself?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming part of everyday life, from smartphones and internet searches to banking and customer service. Although AI offers benefits, it is also making scams more convincing and harder to spot, which is why a general understanding of AI helps. The good news is that you do not need to be a tech expert to use AI safely and with confidence.
Know the basics
AI is technology that can create and analyze information in ways that seem human. It can write emails, answer questions, recommend products, generate images and mimic voices. While this can be helpful, it also means that things you see or hear online may not always be accurate. If something seems unusual or too good to be true, investigate it more closely.
Use it wisely
A good way to get more comfortable with AI is to start small. Many smartphones include voice assistants that can set reminders, check the weather or answer questions. You can also try AI tools to explain a news story, suggest recipes or help draft a message. AI can also be useful for everyday tasks like comparing products, planning trips or organizing a to-do list.
Keep in mind that AI is not perfect and can hallucinate. Hallucinations are answers that sound confident but may be outdated or incorrect. AI can provide general information, but for matters like your health, finances or legal issues, always obtain guidance from qualified professionals and trusted organizations.
Watch for scams
Scammers are using AI to make their schemes more convincing. For instance, AI can be used to create emails that appear to be from your bank or Medicare or phone calls that sound like a family member. Be especially wary of urgent messages that pressure you to act quickly or warn that your account will be closed.
Protect yourself
The most important action to avoid being the victim of a scam is to avoid immediate action. If you receive a suspicious call, text or email, stop and assess the message. You should avoid clicking on links, downloading attachments or responding right away to any messages. Instead, contact the company or person directly using a phone number or website you trust, not the one provided in the message.
As mentioned, scammers now use AI to mimic voices and write convincing messages. Even if something sounds like it is from a family member, friend or company, verify the communication in another way before acting. It is also important to never share sensitive information such as your Social Security number, bank details or passwords unless you initiated the contact and trust the source. Banks and government agencies, including Medicare and Social Security, will never ask for this information by phone or email. Urgent requests for payment by gift card, wire transfer or cryptocurrency are also red flags.
For added protection, use two-factor authentication and keep your devices’ software updated. You can even consider call-blocking services from your mobile service provider. If something does not look right, take time to check it or ask a trusted friend or family member before responding.
Keep learning
Technology is always changing, but there are ways to stay informed. Many libraries and senior centers offer free classes on digital skills and online safety. Trusted resources like AARP’s Fraud Watch Network (aarp.org/fraudwatch) and the Federal Trade Commission (consumer.ftc.gov) also provide up-to-date scam alerts and protection tips. In addition, internet and mobile providers offer a library of research, tips and online safety tools to keep you informed and secure online.
AI may seem complicated at first, but learning the basics can be very beneficial. By staying cautious and building a few smart habits, you can protect yourself and make this technology work for you.
Savvy Living is written by Jim Miller, a regular contributor to the NBC Today Show and author of "The Savvy Living” book. Any links in this article are offered as a service and there is no endorsement of any product. These articles are offered as a helpful and informative service to our friends and may not always reflect this organization’s official position on some topics. Jim invites you to send your senior questions to: Savvy Living, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.
