Family · the two-minute fix
The family safe-word
30-second gist~30s read
Pick a word your family will use to verify "this is really me" on a phone call or message. A weird word that wouldn't come up in normal conversation. Tell everyone: parents, kids, partner, siblings.
The whole defence against voice-clone scams is built around this one habit. It costs you nothing.
If you want more
How to pick a good one
- Memorable but odd. Not a normal word. "Marmalade", "kakapo", "Tuesday-cheese". Easy to remember, unlikely to come up.
- Not from social media. Don't pick the family pet's name or your kids' inside joke that's all over Instagram.
- Not your bank password. Different domain.
- Practice it once. "If you ever call me in trouble, what's the word?" Make sure they remember.
How to use it
If a relative ever calls you in distress: before reacting, ask for the safe-word. A real, panicked relative will be relieved you asked. A scammer will fumble, change the subject, or hang up. The rule for kids is the same: nobody sane will be hurt by you double-checking.