SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sec-secret-word

The FBI suggests setting up what with your family to check identities during a scary call?

A secret word or phrase.

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  1. A shared email password
  2. A group chat emoji
  3. A secret word or phrase ✔

Why: A code word only the real person knows beats trying to judge a voice by ear. At work, a call-back rule for money requests does the same job.

Huh, didn't know that: The FBI also says to listen closely to tone and word choice.

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Why did the cat sit on the computer? To keep an eye on the mouse.
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References

Answer: A secret word or phrase. A code word only the real person knows beats trying to judge a voice by ear. At work, a call-back rule for money requests does the same job.

  1. FBI IC3: Criminals Use Generative AI to Facilitate Financial Fraud www.ic3.gov/PSA/2024/PSA241203
    Create a secret word or phrase with your family to verify their identity.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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Security & PrivacyA message claims to be from your bank. What is the safest way to check whether it is real?Security & PrivacyA caller sounds exactly like your relative and begs for money. What does the FTC say?Security & PrivacyHow much audio does the FTC say a scammer needs to clone someone's voice?

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