"AI safety" sounds like something for scientists. For most of us it means something much simpler: using AI tools without getting hurt by them, and not getting caught out by people who use AI against us.
The two sides of AI safety
1. Staying safe when you use AI. Tools like ChatGPT, Gemini and Copilot are helpful, but they can be confidently wrong, and anything you type may be stored. Being safe means checking important answers and keeping private details private.
2. Staying safe from people who misuse AI. Scammers now use AI to write convincing texts, copy voices and make fake videos of famous people. Being safe means knowing these tricks exist and having a few simple checks ready.
Five habits that cover most of it
- Never type passwords, bank details, PINs or your National Insurance number into an AI chat.
- Check anything important. Health, money and legal answers should be checked with your GP, bank, or an official source such as GOV.UK or the NHS website.
- Slow down when a message is urgent. Urgency is the scammer's favourite tool, with or without AI.
- Agree a family safe word. If "your grandson" rings in a panic asking for money, ask for the word. A cloned voice won't know it.
- Call back on a number you already trust, never the one in the message.
What AI safety is *not*
It isn't about being frightened of technology. Used with a little care, AI can draft letters, explain confusing paperwork and help with hobbies. Safety simply means knowing where the edges are.
Where to start
- Grab our free AI scam checklist and stick it on the fridge.
- Try the How scam-safe are you? quiz.
- If you'd like it explained step by step, our AI Basics course has 31 short text lessons you can read at your own pace (30-day refund).
- Prefer a person? Join a live AI lesson on Zoom or book one-to-one coaching.
Frequently asked questions
Is AI dangerous for older people?
AI itself isn't out to get anyone, but scammers use it to sound more convincing. Knowing the common tricks makes you much harder to fool.
Is it safe to use ChatGPT?
Generally yes, if you don't share private details and you check important answers. See our guide: Is ChatGPT safe?
What should I do if I think I've been scammed?
Ring your bank straight away using the number on your card, then report it to Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) online or on 0300 123 2040 (in Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101). Forward scam texts to 7726.
Do I need to be good with computers to stay safe?
No. The habits above work whatever your skill level.