Protecting Your Voice and Identity
- Anne Ganguzza
- Jun 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 16
with Tom Dheere
BOSSes Anne Ganguzza and Tom Dheere connect to dive deep into the critical world of online security and scam prevention for voiceover professionals. They unpack Tom's recent harrowing experience with an AI voice cloning scam, offering a candid look into the crucial insights needed to navigate digital threats and build a truly secure business in today's landscape. Listeners will discover the essential role of vigilance and proactive measures in protecting their assets, gain an understanding of emerging scam tactics, and appreciate the power of community in safeguarding their careers. They also discuss practical pathways for secure transactions and the evolving nature of digital defense.
In this episode of the VO BOSS Podcast, Anne Ganguzza and Tom Dheere dive into the urgent topic of online security for voice actors, unpacking Tom’s personal encounter with an AI voice cloning scam and offering actionable strategies to protect your voice, identity, and business in an increasingly digital world.
Chapter Summaries
The AI Voice Cloning Scam & Red Flags
(01:04) Anne and Tom discuss a recent scam attempt where Tom was nearly tricked into providing voice samples for AI cloning. They share red flags to watch for in suspicious job offers, including potentially risky websites, lack of signature files, and unusual payment requests. Tom explains how he used Google Gemini to detect the scam, emphasizing AI's role in fighting digital threats.
Combatting Payment Scams & Payment Security
(06:05) Tom details the long-standing "overpayment scam" and other fraudulent payment tactics. Anne shares her strict policy of requiring electronic payment in full (or partial upfront payment) from new clients before job commencement, highlighting its effectiveness in ensuring legitimate work. They discuss the advantages of ACH direct deposits for larger, established clients.
Identity Theft Prevention & Credit Monitoring
(12:30) Tom recounts his recent near-identity theft experience, emphasizing the importance of immediate action. Both BOSSes stress the critical role of freezing credit bureau accounts (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax) and regularly monitoring credit scores through free services like CreditKarma.com to prevent fraudulent activity.
Multi-Factor Authentication & Network Security
(18:01) Anne and Tom advocate strongly for multi-factor (or two-factor) authentication on all online accounts, especially financial ones, as a vital security layer despite potential inconvenience. They also discuss the superior security and stability of wired (Ethernet) internet connections over Wi-Fi for home studios, and the benefit of VPNs for public Wi-Fi use.
Top 10 Takeaways
Beware of AI Voice Cloning Scams:
Be highly suspicious of unsolicited job offers, especially those with large word counts and no clear client identity.
Verify New Clients:
Always research unfamiliar companies and individuals on LinkedIn, Google, and scam-detection websites.
Insist on Professional Communication:
Legitimate companies typically have official domain emails (not Gmail/Yahoo) and detailed signature files.
Understand Payment Scams:
Be aware of the "overpayment scam" where fraudsters send large checks and ask for a portion back.
Demand Upfront Payment (New Clients):
For new clients, require electronic payment (full or partial deposit) before starting work to confirm legitimacy.
Utilize the NAVA AI Rider:
Attach the free NAVA AI rider to all your contracts to protect your voice from unauthorized AI cloning.
Guard Your Credit:
Regularly monitor your credit reports and scores using free services like CreditKarma.com and free accounts directly with Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. Crucially, freeze your credit reports with each of the three major credit bureaus to prevent new credit accounts from being opened fraudulently.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):
Implement 2FA/MFA on all online accounts, especially financial ones, for an essential layer of security.
Use Wired Internet (Ethernet):
For home studios, a wired Ethernet connection is faster, more stable, and significantly more secure than Wi-Fi.
Leverage Community for Security:
Use social media groups and forums to share scam alerts and protect fellow voice actors.
Referenced in this Episode
Direct links to things we brought up ++
Review Your Credit with Credit Karma >>
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More from Anne Ganguzza
She's a powerhouse voice talent, producer, and host. Book time with Anne to get your voiceover career in gear or focus on a specific genre. Catch her each week on VO BOSS or register for an event on VOPeeps.com >>
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