The Robots Are Calling, And They Sound Like Your Mom

Over 3.4 billion phishing emails are sent every single day. Now imagine those emails — and calls, and texts — being written and voiced by AI that sounds exactly like someone you trust. That's not a sci-fi plot. That's Tuesday.

Before we go further — full transparency: this newsletter was written with a little AI assistance. The tips, however, came from Greg Lepard, a cybersecurity expert who shared these insights live at a recent event. Turns out the best defense against AI scams still starts with a human being worth listening to.

AI is one of the most powerful tools we have access to right now. It can draft your emails, summarize your reports, and apparently, impersonate your nephew asking for money. The good news? A few smart habits can keep you miles ahead of the bad actors.

You Wouldn't Leave Your Front Door Open — So Why Leave Your Accounts Unprotected?

Let's start with the basics that surprisingly aren't basic enough yet. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) should be non-negotiable on every account that matters to you. It's the deadbolt on a door that already has a lock. And while you're at it, ditch the Excel spreadsheet masquerading as a password manager — that's a locked diary with the key taped to the cover. Use a real password manager, back up your data regularly, and invest in an endpoint protection tool like Norton or McAfee. These aren't optional extras anymore; they're table stakes.

The New Rules of AI Hygiene

Here's where it gets interesting. Using AI tools (and you probably are) means you need a new set of habits. Don't feed the AI anything you wouldn't say out loud in a crowded coffee shop. Sensitive client data, personal financials, private business strategies — keep them offline and out of the prompt box.

Training matters too. Whether it's yourself, your team, or your household, everyone touching AI tools needs to understand what's fair game and what isn't. And those apps on your phone? Be picky. Apps like Temu have been flagged for requesting permissions that let them access your camera, microphone, and more. If an app wants access to everything, question why.

Finally — and this one is underrated — create a secret verification question with your close family and friends. Pick something absurd, like "What's the dog's favorite planet?" If you ever get a frantic call that sounds like your daughter but something feels off, that nonsensical question could save you from an AI voice scam.

Trust your instincts. Then verify anyway.

"The price of freedom is eternal vigilance." — Thomas Jefferson