AI is moving fast—changing how we work, how we communicate, and yes, even how criminals try to trick us. For family-owned businesses like ours, it can feel overwhelming to keep up. But here’s the deal: while AI does bring new risks, most of the threats we face still come down to the same thing—folks trying to trick good people into making a mistake.
Let’s shine a light on a few of these “AI monsters” so they don’t keep you up at night.
1. Doppelgängers in Your Video Chats – Deepfakes
AI can now create fake videos that look and sound like real people. Hackers are using them to trick employees into trusting the wrong person.
Imagine hopping on a Zoom call and thinking you’re talking to your company’s leaders, only to find out later it was all fake. That’s already happened in real businesses.
For family companies where trust and relationships matter so much, this is scary stuff. The red flags? Odd facial movements, long silences, or strange lighting. If something feels “off,” trust your gut and double-check before you act.
2. Creepy Crawlies in Your Inbox – Smarter Phishing E-Mails
We’ve all seen those clumsy scam e-mails full of typos. But with AI, hackers can now write polished, convincing messages that look legitimate. Some even translate them into multiple languages to reach more people.
That’s why old tricks for spotting scams aren’t enough anymore. But there’s good news: simple defenses still work. Multifactor authentication (that extra code sent to your phone) makes it nearly impossible for crooks to get in, even if they do guess your password. And don’t underestimate training—teaching your team to slow down and spot red flags (like urgent or pushy messages) can stop an attack cold.
3. Skeleton AI Tools – Fake “Helpful” Software
Cybercriminals know we’re curious about AI tools, so they set traps. They create fake “AI generators” or “productivity boosters” that look real but actually install malware on your computer.
For example, one group used TikTok videos to trick folks into downloading fake software updates. Instead of getting a free AI tool, people unknowingly installed malicious programs.
For family businesses, the rule of thumb is simple: don’t download tools just because they sound helpful. Always ask a trusted IT partner to vet new software before anyone in your company installs it.
Keeping Your Legacy Safe From AI Tricks
Here’s the bottom line: AI doesn’t have to be something that keeps you up at night. The same habits that protect your family business today—good communication, training your people, and leaning on trusted partners—will keep you safe tomorrow.
AI might be new, but the values that protect your business are the same: caution, trust, and preparation.
Ready to Chase the AI Ghosts Out of Your Family Business?
Schedule your free discovery call today and let’s talk about how to protect your legacy from the scary side of AI—before it becomes a real problem.