Appendix:Tips, Tricks, and Resources

Keeping It Real in the Age of AI: A Family Guide

With AI getting smarter by the day, it’s good to have a game plan to keep you and your loved ones safe from digital trickery. Don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom—just a few smart habits can go a long way.

Family Secrets

  • What: Come up with a fun code word, phrase, and gesture that’s just for your inner circle. Maybe it’s “purple unicorn tacos” while touching your nose. Or it could be your grandma’s secret recipe name. Use it when you need to be sure it’s really family you’re talking to.
  • Why: AI might be able to fake Uncle Bob’s voice, but it won’t know about that silly dance you do at family reunions.
  • Example: Your “cousin” calls asking for urgent financial help. Before you rush to the bank, ask for the code word. If it’s on video, ask for the combination of the code word and gesture. No code word? No gesture? Time to do some detective work!

Trust Your Spidey Sense

  • What: Slow down. If a video, picture, or chat gives you that “hmm” feeling, take a breather. It’s OK to step back and mull things over.
  • Why: Sometimes your gut knows something’s fishy before your brain catches up.
  • Example: That viral video of your favorite celebrity saying something totally out of character? If it feels off, it might just be. Give yourself permission to be skeptical.

Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One News Basket

  • What: Before you share that shocking headline, take a quick tour of a few trustworthy news ...

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