How to protect your family from AI scams and deepfake calls

Why this matters now

Real-time deepfake video calls are coming. In 2024 an employee at the engineering firm Arup sent about $25.6 million after a video call in which the CFO and colleagues on screen were deepfakes, and the FBI counted more than $5 million in reported losses from fake family-emergency calls in 2025.

• AI can now hold a live video call as a realistic person
  What the technology can do and how to protect your family and your business.

What to do

First, a family code word: the FBI’s first tip on AI fraud is to "create a secret word or phrase with your family to verify their identity." Make it something new that nobody could guess from knowing you, not a pet’s name or a birthday. Second, if a call asks for money, sensitive information or an unusual favor, hang up and call back on a number you know.

• How to update your phone, computer, browser and router
  A calm, step-by-step guide for every device, plus how to turn on two-factor sign-in.

The bigger picture

• The internet is under attack. Here’s how to protect yourself and your family.
  What’s going on, why it’s different, and the simple things you can do today.
• Your questions about the hacks, answered
  Short answers to what you’re probably wondering.

By Matt Shumer. Updated 2026-10-27.