What you’ll learn
The problem: A message demanding immediate action can leave you unsure whether it’s genuine.
How AI can help: AI can point out possible warning signs, but it can’t prove a message is safe.
In this lesson: You’ll examine a made-up delivery message and learn to check it independently.
What you’ll need: A phone, tablet, or computer with internet access and an AI chat. We’ll use ChatGPT as an example.
Before you start: Use the fictional message below. Don’t enter real passwords, verification codes, account numbers, personal details, or a real suspicious link into an AI chat.
1. Open an AI chat
Open ChatGPT (opens in a new tab) or an AI chat you already use. If you’re new to AI, start with your first conversation with AI. Keep this lesson open as you practice.
A free option is available, although access and limits can vary. If you’re asked to sign in or create an account, follow the on-screen instructions.
2. Give AI the fictional message
Imagine a delivery message demands an immediate payment. This example contains no real link. Copy or type the entire request below into the chat and send it:
Your practice message:
Look at this fictional text message: “Your delivery is delayed. Pay a $2 fee now or your package will be returned. [No link is included in this practice example.]” List possible warning signs and a safe way to check independently. Do not claim you can prove whether it is a scam.
Need help copying and pasting?
On a computer: Select the whole message above. Copy with Ctrl+C on Windows or Command+C on a Mac. Switch to your AI chat, click its message box, and paste with Ctrl+V or Command+V.
On a phone or tablet: Touch and hold the message, adjust the selection handles if needed, and choose Copy. Switch to the AI chat, touch and hold its message box, and choose Paste.
If the Copy button doesn’t work, use these steps or type the message. After pasting, remember to send it in the chat.
Read the answer and see whether it uses the information you gave it.
3. Ask for a simpler explanation
If you’d like the answer shorter, send this follow-up in the same conversation:
Your follow-up message:
Explain the warning signs in three short points. Tell me how to check without clicking a link or replying to the message. Do not say the message is definitely real or fake.
What a helpful answer might look like
This is an example we wrote for the lesson, not a recorded AI response. Your answer may use different words.
- The request creates urgency and asks for payment.
- The text alone does not prove whether the message is genuine.
- Check with the delivery company using a trusted number or website you find independently.
A real message may look different. These clues are reasons to check, not proof by themselves.
4. Check the answer
Compare your answer with the fictional request:
- Does the answer recognize the urgent payment request?
- Does it say the text alone cannot confirm whether the message is genuine?
- Does it suggest checking independently instead of clicking or replying?
For a real suspicious message, don’t click its links, open attachments, reply, or call a number in it. Find the organization’s contact information yourself from a trusted source, such as a card or statement you already have, and ask about the message.
Try it with your own idea
If you receive a concerning message, pause and verify it independently. You can ask AI general questions about warning signs using a made-up description, but don’t share a real message’s links, verification codes, account details, or other private information.
For example: “What are common warning signs in a message asking for an urgent delivery fee, and how can I check safely?”
What if I get stuck?
AI says the message is definitely safe. Don’t rely on that assurance. Verify through a trusted contact method you find yourself.
I already clicked or shared information. Contact the real organization using a trusted number or website you find independently and follow its guidance.
I can’t find where to type. Look for a message box near the bottom of the AI chat screen. Click or tap it before typing.
You’ve finished when: You’ve identified possible warning signs and know to check independently before taking action.
Try the next lesson: Write a clear family update →
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