@#1 ... For example, you could tell your parents, children, or spouse to ask for a word or phrase to verify your identity ...

imo, "tell" i the important aspect here.

Don't us email, which may be monitored.

Talk directly with those who matter to you.

Preferably in person, face to face.

@#2

OK, trying to bypass this faulty keyboard... (fwiw, there's a new laptop being delivered in a few days. Hopefully, it is the laptop and not me. :) ...)

imo, "tell" is the important aspect here.

Don't use email, which may be monitored.

Talk directly with those who matter to you.

Preferably in person, face to face.

@#1 ... For example, you could tell your parents, children, or spouse to ask for a word or phrase to verify your identity if something seems suspicious, such as ...

imo, that seems to be a norm in secure discussions.

i.e., always begin the discussion with [code phrase] when we talk.