Deepfakes and Voice Cloning: How to Protect Your Family
A call that sounds like a relative asking for money may be fake. A few habits make you much harder to fool.
How the scam works
Criminals copy a voice from public videos and call with an urgent emergency, asking for quick payment.
Family safeguards
Agree on defenses ahead of time.
- Set a private code word.
- Hang up and call back on a saved number.
- Never pay by gift card or crypto under pressure.
Reduce your exposure
Limit public videos with clear voice, and keep social accounts private where possible.
If you are targeted
Stop the call and report it.
- Do not send money.
- Contact your bank.
- Report to local authorities.
Key takeaway: Pre-agree a code word and always verify urgent requests through a number you already trust.
