Locks for the Digital House
You wouldn’t let your loved one’s front door stay unlocked. But most seniors’ digital “houses” — phones, emails, and social accounts — are wide open. AI-driven scams break in quietly, often before anyone notices. This module equips you to install the locks, alarms, and fire drills of the digital age.
Why Safeguards Matter Now
- AI speeds up attacks: What used to take weeks (phishing campaigns) now happens in minutes.
- Caregivers are indirect targets: If a scammer tricks your loved one, your financial and emotional bandwidth gets drained.
- Prevention beats repair: Once money or identity is stolen, recovery takes months — or never fully happens.
The 4 Layers of AI Safeguards
1. Device-Level Protection
- Auto-updates on phones & computers (most seniors delay updates).
- Ad-blockers & antivirus: block AI-driven scam ads and fake sites.
- Password managers: no more sticky notes on the fridge.
🔒 Caregiver tip: Set devices to auto-update at night when unused. This leverages habit stacking — automation removes reliance on memory.
2. Account-Level Security
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Text or authenticator app.
- Shared account recovery backup: Caregiver listed as recovery contact.
- Bank & credit alerts: automatic notifications for purchases.
🔒 Brain science: 2FA is annoying — but that friction is intentional. Cognitive load acts like a speed bump, giving the brain time to override impulses.
3. Communication Filters
- Spam filters on email & phone carriers.
- Call blocking apps that auto-screen robocalls.
- Family “white list” contacts in phone so unknown numbers go to voicemail.
🔒 Why it works: The brain’s startle response makes us answer unexpected calls. Filters keep scams from ever reaching that trigger.
4. Family Protocols
- Code word system (already introduced in Module 14–15).
- Weekly check-ins: 10 minutes to review suspicious texts/emails.
- Scam folder: Have loved ones drag fishy emails there for you to review.
🔒 Neuroscience: Rehearsal turns rules into reflexes. Families that practice “scam drills” respond calmly under pressure.
Hands-On Practice
Drill 1: The Digital Lock Check
Sit with your loved one. Check:
- Are devices auto-updating?
- Is 2FA turned on?
- Is a password manager installed?
Mark progress in a checklist. Repetition builds confidence.
Drill 2: The Scam Folder Habit
Have your loved one create an “Uncertain Emails” folder.
Rule: never delete or click — just drag.
This reduces decision fatigue (the brain doesn’t waste energy debating).
Drill 3: Emergency Simulation
Pretend to be a scam caller: “This is the bank. Your account is locked. Give me your password.”
Watch if your loved one pauses, asks for the code word, or hangs up.
Repeat until it’s second nature.
Creative Anchor: “The Seatbelt Rule”
No one argues about seatbelts anymore. They’re automatic. Safeguards for AI scams should feel the same: not optional, not negotiable — just the first thing you do when you “get in the car” of digital life.
Watch This
Below is a great 9 minute video going into detail on voice cloning, grandparent scams, and more:
Reflection Prompt
- Which safeguard is missing right now in your family?
- Who will you help set it up this week?
- How can you turn that into a repeatable habit?
Key Takeaway
AI safeguards aren’t complicated. Think of them as locks, alarms, and seatbelts for the digital world. Caregivers who set up device updates, 2FA, filters, and family protocols give loved ones both safety and freedom — the peace of mind to enjoy technology without fear.
Up Next:
See how AI can help track medications, schedule visits, and keep care teams organized—reducing confusion and making healthcare smoother for everyone.
Disclaimer: The information in this lesson is provided for educational purposes only. It is not legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Results may vary depending on individual use. While we update content regularly, AI tools and risks can change over time. Always use your own judgment and consult a qualified professional if you need specific advice.