Security in the Age of AI

Last Friday, Tim Dimoff shared practical advice for protecting ourselves, our families, and our businesses from increasingly sophisticated security threats. Drawing on his background in law enforcement and security, Tim emphasized that criminals continually adapt to new technology—and artificial intelligence is making impersonation scams more convincing than ever.

Many attacks still begin with something simple: an unexpected email or text containing a link. Tim advised never clicking a suspicious link, particularly one designed to create fear or urgency. Instead, independently contact the bank, credit card company, or organization using a known phone number. He also recommended using two-factor authentication whenever possible, avoiding sensitive transactions on public Wi-Fi, using tap-to-pay rather than inserting a card at gas pumps, and being cautious when using public USB charging ports.

AI introduces another challenge: criminals can now imitate someone's voice or appearance using only a small sample of audio or video. A seemingly convincing call, email, or even video conference may therefore no longer be enough to prove someone's identity.

Tim's biggest takeaway was also his simplest: create a family and business authentication code. Agree on a private verbal code that family members and key employees can use whenever an unusual request involves money, sensitive information, or an emergency. If someone claiming to be your child, grandchild, boss, or business partner asks for money, simply ask, "What's the code?"

Technology will continue to change, but a simple verification process can prevent an expensive mistake. Tim encouraged everyone to go home and establish a code with their family—and do the same with the key people in their business.