The short answer
- You can reduce the risks by using official tools, keeping private information out and checking important answers.
- Never share passwords, ID numbers or full financial details.
- Download apps only from the official App Store or Google Play.
- Use AI for drafts and explanations, and check anything important with a professional.
Watch the 10-second lesson
That voice can be fake
How the AI voice-clone "grandchild in trouble" call works, and the 3 steps that reduce the risk.
Read this lesson as text
- A call from an unknown number: "Grandma, it's me. I'm in trouble. Please send money."
- This voice can be fake. AI can copy a voice from a short video clip.
- What to do: 1. Hang up. 2. Call them back on a number you already know. 3. Ask for your family code word.
1. Never share passwords, PINs or codes
No legitimate AI helper needs your passwords, and neither does anyone who calls you. That includes the six-digit codes texted to your phone. Treat those like the key to your front door.
2. Keep ID and account numbers out
Social Security, Medicare, driver's license, bank account and full card numbers never need to go into a chat. If you're getting help with a bill or letter, cover or delete those numbers first.
3. Download only official apps
Look-alike apps try to trick people with similar names and logos. Get apps only from the Apple App Store or Google Play, check that the developer is the real company (OpenAI for ChatGPT, Anthropic for Claude, xAI for Grok, Meta for Muse) and look at the number of reviews.
4. Check the privacy settings
Most AI apps have settings that control whether your conversations are saved or used to improve the product. Take two minutes to look at them, or have us set them up for you.
5. Double-check facts that matter
AI can sound confident and still be wrong. For medications, legal questions, taxes and big money decisions, use AI to understand the topic and prepare your questions, then confirm with your doctor, pharmacist, attorney or advisor.
6. Be careful with AI that can spend money
Newer AI "agents," like Meta's Muse, can book and buy things for you. Always review the item, address, payment card and total before you approve. More in our Muse guide.
7. Remember that scammers use AI too
Perfectly written emails, convincing fake websites and cloned voices are now easy to make. Judge the request, not the polish. Pressure, secrecy and unusual payment methods are the giveaways. See our voice-cloning scam guide.
8. Don't let strangers "help" remotely
Never allow someone who contacted you out of the blue to connect to your computer or phone, no matter who they say they are.
9. When in doubt, pause and ask
Pressure to act before you can check is a warning sign. Call a family member, or call us. AI Buddy includes 60 minutes of phone support a month, only after WiseGai completes your AI setup. You can use that time to talk through questions about suspicious messages; no text support is included.
Quick questions
Is ChatGPT safe for seniors to use?
You can reduce the risks by using official tools, keeping private information out and checking important answers.
Does AI record my conversations?
Many AI services save conversations by default and let you change that in settings. Review the privacy settings in whichever app you use.
Can AI give medical advice?
AI can help you understand medical terms and prepare questions, but it isn't a doctor. Always confirm medical decisions with a professional.
Want someone to walk you through it?
Book a free 15-minute call. We'll explain it slowly, on your own device.