Welton's Wisdom - Safeguarding Sensitive Client Information with AI

Part 5: Safeguarding Sensitive Client Information with AI

By Welton Hong

Note: This is part five of a six-part series by Welton Hong, the founder and CEO of Ring Ring Marketing, about using artificial intelligence (AI) in funeral services.

Let’s face it, our technology is listening to us. From the cellphone in our pocket to our 15 open browser tabs, we’re constantly leaving behind digital breadcrumbs to our private information. Add in the looming threats of data breaches or even a few conspiracy theories with merit, and it becomes clear that privacy is more of a privilege than a guarantee.

Families you serve trust you with some of their most personal information—names, addresses, financial transactions, preplanning details and more. A data breach could spell disaster—not just for your reputation but also for the families you serve. So while data security isn’t exactly party conversation, know that this isn’t just about protecting numbers and names; it’s about safeguarding trust.

Although you can’t control what happens to families’ information outside your funeral home, safeguarding it within your funeral home is absolutely essential—as essential as offering compassionate service. And just like you wouldn’t let an untrained staffer manage a complex memorial service, you shouldn’t let outdated security measures handle your data. Enter AI-powered cybersecurity.

You might not think cybersecurity is pertinent in deathcare, but cybercriminals aren’t just targeting the big guys. Small businesses, including funeral homes, are seen as low-hanging fruit. That’s why investing in robust cybersecurity is no longer optional; it’s essential.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer the stuff of sci-fi. It’s here, and it’s revolutionizing cybersecurity in ways that are practical, efficient and—let’s be honest—pretty cool. AI excels at analyzing patterns, spotting anomalies and flagging suspicious activity before it’s too late. Think of it as having a security guard who knows every regular visitor by name and immediately calls out the unfamiliar ones. With the ability to detect unusual login attempts or unexpected data transfers, AI raises the alarm before a potential breach turns into a full-blown crisis.

Even if cybercriminals manage to intercept your data, AI-powered encryption ensures they can’t make sense of it. It’s like turning sensitive information into an unsolvable puzzle. Additionally, AI goes beyond reacting to current

threats. By analyzing historical data and identifying trends, it anticipates potential vulnerabilities and suggests preemptive measures. This predictive ability is like having a crystal ball that helps you stay one step ahead of cyber threats.

AI also enhances user authentication, making it harder for unauthorized users to gain access to your systems. Whether through multi-factor authentication or biometric scans, AI adds an extra layer of security. After all, “123456” is not a password; it’s an open invitation.

While AI is a powerful ally, it’s not a substitute for human vigilance. It’s still a partnership. Training your staff on best practices—like recognizing phishing scams and using strong passwords—remains crucial. Regular system updates ensure you’re not relying on outdated technology. I also caution you to choose AI tools carefully. Collaborating with a trusted cybersecurity provider can help tailor AI solutions to your funeral home’s specific needs.