“I Didn’t Know It Was a Scam Until I Asked ChatGPT” How AI Helped Me Protect scam. Not long ago, I came across a listing for my children’s book about kimchi on an unfamiliar e-commerce platform. At first, I felt confused. I had only ever published this book through Amazon KDP. So what was it doing there? Was this unauthorized? Was it part of a legitimate distribution chain? Or was someone selling my content without permission? It was hard to tell. I didn’t want to jump to conclusions—but I also didn’t want to ignore it. That’s when I decided to ask ChatGPT. Why Ask ChatGPT?In the past, I would have spent hours Googling, scrolling forums, and trying to guess whether or not it was a scam. But now, I have a simple approach: When in doubt, ask ChatGPT first. What makes this powerful is that ChatGPT doesn’t just give vague answers. It breaks down the issue logically, citing similar cases, offering legal context, and even suggesting how to respond—all based on the question you ask. How ChatGPT Helped Me Identify a ScamMy question was simple: “My book is being sold on a site where I never published it. Is this a scam?” Here’s what ChatGPT told me to look for:
Don’t Judge—Ask FirstPreviously, I would have bounced between two extremes: “It’s definitely a scam!” “Maybe it’s fine… I shouldn’t overreact.” Now I realize how important it is not to make assumptions too early. The smarter move? Don’t jump to conclusions—just submit the query. ChatGPT doesn't claim to know everything, but it does help you think clearly, structure your questions, and examine evidence before reacting. ChatGPT Helped Me Take ActionWhat impressed me most was that ChatGPT didn’t stop at identifying the issue—it also helped me take the next steps. It generated:
Final ThoughtsAI isn’t just a search engine. When used well, it becomes a thinking partner—a guide that helps you ask smarter questions, see warning signs clearly, and respond with purpose. If you ever find yourself asking, “Is this a scam?”, don’t let uncertainty slow you down. Just ask ChatGPT. It might give you the clarity you didn’t know you needed. Got a Suspicious Email or Message?
Don’t guess—just copy and paste it into ChatGPT. In today’s digital world, we come across questionable content all the time. A strange email from an unknown address, an unbelievably cheap product link, a message claiming your account has been suspended, or a “guaranteed income” ad that seems too good to be true. Most people respond in one of two ways:
Copy the full message or content and ask ChatGPT directly. How Do I Use ChatGPT for Scam Checks?Let’s say you receive this kind of email: "We noticed suspicious activity on your account. Please verify your information immediately by clicking the link below." [suspicious-verify-center.com/login] Instead of panicking or ignoring it, just ask ChatGPT: “I received this email. Is it a scam?” (Then paste the full message.) ChatGPT will help you break it down. For example, it may point out:
Screenshots Work Too You’re not limited to text. If you receive a suspicious message via social media, a sketchy online shop, or a strange SMS, take a screenshot and upload it. You can ask: “Is this image from a scam site?” (Attach the screenshot) ChatGPT can analyze visual elements like:
The Rule: Don’t Assume—Ask.Scams are getting smarter, more personalized, and harder to recognize. That’s why it’s more important than ever not to rely on gut instinct alone. So here’s your new rule: Don’t assume. Don’t react. Just ask.
AI isn’t just a search engine—it’s your decision-making partner. So next time you hesitate, don’t ignore your instinct. Just run it by ChatGPT—and move forward with clarity.
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Creating a Home Atelier: The Power of the Art Table in Doing Art Together Setting up an art table at home—based on Doing Art Together by Muriel Silberstein-Storfer—can nurture a child’s creativity, independence, and emotional expression. Here’s why it matters and how to do it right. Muriel Silberstein-Storfer’s Doing Art Together is far more than a collection of art projects. It’s a deeply thoughtful guide rooted in the belief that creativity flourishes when children are given the right space, tools, and freedom to explore. At the center of this philosophy is a deceptively simple concept: the home art table.
What Is an Art Table? An art table is a dedicated space in the home where children can draw, cut, paint, glue, and express themselves freely. But more than that, it’s a place where imagination is validated, where creativity is integrated into daily life—not reserved for “art time” or school alone. 🛠 How to Set Up an Art Table (Inspired by Doing Art Together) 1. Location
Educational Value of the Art Table Silberstein-Storfer emphasizes that the art table is not just a workspace—it’s a manifestation of educational philosophy. Through this table, children develop:
A Touch of Eastern PhilosophyOne of the most unique elements of Doing Art Together is its nod to Eastern art traditions. Silberstein-Storfer draws inspiration from East Asian paintings, where calligraphy and image exist side by side. She suggests that practicing calligraphy or brushwork can refine children’s artistic sense and enhance their focus—something I’ve found deeply true in my own teaching. Final Thoughts Doing Art Together shows us that meaningful art education doesn’t require expensive tools or large studios. Sometimes, it begins with something as simple as a small table in the corner of your living room. The act of placing an art table in the home sends a powerful message: Art belongs here. Creation is welcome here. Your ideas matter here. Integrating Creativity and Structure: A Practical Reflection on Doing Art TogetherMuriel Silberstein-Storfer was an American artist, educator, and author best known for her pioneering work in art education for children and families. Born in Brooklyn, she graduated from the Fieldston School and earned a BFA in drama from Carnegie Mellon University. She began her career as a set designer at the Pittsburgh Playhouse before expanding into painting, collage, and other mixed-media work. She studied under Victor D’Amico, the founder of the education department at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and in the 1960s conducted workshops at MoMA. Later, she founded and led parent-child workshops at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, helping to spread the model of creative family art education. Doing Art Together Her most well-known book, Doing Art Together, was first published in 1982 and updated in 1997. The book serves as a practical guide to the creative process, encouraging parents and children to explore art side by side. It includes step-by-step project instructions and emphasizes open-ended questions rather than labeling or interpreting children’s work, fostering imagination and self-expression. Doing Art Together Program Building on her work at the Met, Silberstein-Storfer co-founded a nonprofit organization called Doing Art Together with Electra Askitopoulos-Friedman. The initiative aimed to extend museum-quality art education beyond traditional institutions, bringing it to underserved communities through partnerships with New York City public schools, social service agencies, and hospitals. The program focused on accessibility, creativity, and cultural enrichment for children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to engage with the arts. Legacy and Impact Muriel Silberstein-Storfer passed away in 2014, but her vision endures through the ongoing work of Doing Art Together. She received the Charles Marshall Robertson Memorial Award in 1995 in recognition of her contributions to arts education. Her legacy lives on in the inclusive, hands-on, and community-based teaching methods she championed. Muriel Silberstein-Storfer was an influential American artist, educator, and author who pioneered family-centered art education in museums. As a disciple of Victor D’Amico at MoMA, she led parent-child workshops at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and later founded the non-profit organization Doing Art Together. Her acclaimed book of the same name offers hands-on, inclusive art activities designed to cultivate creativity and communication between children and adults. Silberstein-Storfer’s work continues to inspire community-based art programs across the U.S. Why Doing Art Together Remains My Most Trusted Guide as an Art EducatorMuriel Silberstein-Storfer’s Doing Art Together is not just a book—it is a compass for any educator navigating the beautiful, unpredictable terrain of teaching art to children. While the book is often recommended as a guide for parents who want to nurture creativity and artistic sensibility in their children, I believe it is just as essential—if not more so—for art teachers working in the classroom. What sets this book apart is its incredible attention to detail. Silberstein-Storfer begins with the very basics, offering advice on how to set up an effective art table, what kind of tabletop surface is most suitable, and how to create a physical environment that encourages creativity. But she doesn’t stop there—she anticipates the many unpredictable situations that can arise in an art class and provides clear, compassionate strategies for how to respond. Her writing is full of empathy and experience. One of the parts that resonated with me most is her emphasis on routine. She explains that when students know what to expect—whether it’s a progression from painting to collage to clay—they feel safe, grounded, and more open to exploration. This idea completely transformed the way I plan my curriculum. I realized that a predictable rhythm in class allows children to settle their minds and focus more deeply on the work in front of them. Art class, after all, thrives on a combination of concentration and joy—and Silberstein-Storfer shows us how to foster both. Another insight that has stayed with me is her advice on maintaining classroom focus. If students are constantly getting up to fetch materials or wander around, it becomes difficult for them to stay engaged. To prevent this, she urges teachers to plan ahead—to arrange materials in advance, to minimize disruptions, and even to take on more cleanup responsibilities themselves if it means the students can remain immersed in their art. While this might appear to increase a teacher’s workload, I’ve found that it actually brings peace and productivity into the classroom. I applied this directly to my own teaching during graduate school, and it changed the tone of my classes entirely. The students became more present, more concentrated, and more connected to their work. Perhaps my favorite part of the book is how Silberstein-Storfer weaves in Eastern philosophy. She draws inspiration from the layout of traditional East Asian painting—where calligraphy and imagery exist side by side—and observes how practicing calligraphy can develop a deeper artistic sensibility. This sparked an idea for my own curriculum. I began teaching East Asian ink painting, combining brushwork with expressive writing. The results were astonishing: my students found deep joy and meaning in the work, and their artistic skills flourished in unexpected ways. Silberstein-Storfer also stresses the importance of museum-based learning. During my time in Germany, I was fortunate to have regular access to museums and galleries, and it enriched my cultural life immeasurably. In contrast, many students in the United States, particularly outside of major cities, lack access to such experiences. The built environment doesn’t always prioritize the arts. I often feel a twinge of sadness when I think about how much time children here spend in cars instead of in front of beautiful paintings or sculptures. Her message reminds me how critical it is to expose students—early and often—to powerful, inspiring images. Finally, Doing Art Together champions intergenerational learning: the idea that art should not just be an isolated classroom activity but a shared experience between students and their families. One day, I hope to bring this idea to life—through workshops, parent-child art days, and community events that celebrate making things together. I read this book over and over again during graduate school. It was my roadmap, my teacher, and my quiet companion through many lesson plans and long nights. As I learned more about Muriel Silberstein-Storfer’s life—her dedication to public arts education and her work in underserved communities—I came to see her not just as a mentor in print but as a role model. Her legacy reminds me that change doesn't happen through grand gestures alone. It happens through small, steady acts of care: setting up the right table, anticipating a child’s needs, cleaning a brush before class begins. Today, as I continue to build my own path in community-based art education, I carry her wisdom with me. And I’m reminded, every time I see a child light up in front of a blank page, just how powerful that wisdom truly is.  When Your Name Is Used Without Permission: My Experience with Reporting a Scam SiteAs an artist and writer, I’ve worked hard to build a body of work under my name—“Myungja Anna Koh.” That name is part of my creative identity, my brand. So when I discovered that a website had published random, AI-generated articles using my full name in the titles--without my consent, without context, and without credit—I knew I had to act. I found pages like:
How I Responded: Filing a Google Legal Removal RequestGoogle provides a legal removal form for cases like this: 👉 Report Content for Legal Reasons Here’s what I submitted:
What I Learned
Final Thoughts If you’re a creator, especially one using your real name professionally, I encourage you to search your name regularly. If something looks off, don’t ignore it. We work hard to build our creative identity--we have every right to protect it.    Why should bloggers search their own names regularly? The Internet is an open space, and even if we don’t intend it, someone can use our name, content, or brand without permission, and misrepresent it. Especially for artists, writers, educators, and publishers who use their names as their brands, because their names themselves are assets and a sign of trust, it is essential to periodically check how and in what contexts they are being used. What problems can be prevented in advance? My name is exposed in connection with false information, advertising content, and spam articles My name is attached to content automatically generated by AI and is used as a theft Websites that copy and paste my text are ranked high in search results Unauthorized sites that impersonate my name or use it as a similar brand These problems may not be noticeable at first, but the longer they remain in search engines, the more they directly affect my brand image and credibility. How to search? Search by enclosing the entire name in quotes → "Myungja Anna Koh" Keywords together → "Myungja Anna Koh" blog, "Myungja Anna Koh" art, "Myungja Anna Koh" PDF, etc. You can also use **Google Image Search, News tab, and plagiarized content search tools (e.g. Copyscape, Grammarly Plagiarism Checker)** How often should I do this?
At least once every 1-2 months Or after announcing a major new piece of content (book release, exhibition, article release, etc.) When new comments/inflow start to feel strange Conclusion Your name is your story and your asset. If you don’t check yourself to see where and how your name is being used, no one will. Constant self-checks aren’t just a way to avoid risk, they’re also the most realistic way to truly protect your brand and voice. Regular Google searches aren’t just a routine, they’re a survival habit that creators in the digital age must have. Why I Started Blogging—and Why You Should TooWhen I first started blogging in 2021, it wasn’t out of ambition or strategy. It was out of necessity. After every exhibition, I found myself answering the same questions over and over again. I realized that if I could just write these answers down once and direct people to a link, I could save a lot of energy and time. That was the beginning. My official website, annakoh.com, was actually created back in 2019 by my son. He used my name to register the domain and encouraged me to treat it as a personal brand. I originally thought about using names like "ArtLove" or "ArtIsPassion," but he told me, "Use your name. Make your name the brand." Looking back, I think that was the best advice I ever received. Before that, I had experimented with Google Sites, but I found Weebly to be far more accessible and easy to use. At the time, the concept of branding felt abstract—I understood the theory, but not the lived reality. Branding means establishing a consistent and authentic identity that people can recognize, trust, and connect with. But as I continued running my blog over time, I came to understand what branding truly meant. It felt like discovering your own voice—not creating a persona to impress others, but allowing your true self to be seen. If you try to package yourself with colors or styles that don’t belong to you, you will burn out. You run out of material. You lose direction. That’s why I always recommend new artists and creatives to build their sites using their own names. Show yourself as you are. The more honest and simple your presentation, the more sustainable it will be. Because I made that decision early on, I believe I was able to keep going long-term. I remember that after a year or two of steady blogging, I started to feel real joy. Whenever someone asked me a question, I could simply say, "Please check annakoh.com," and everything they needed was already there. At first, the influence of a blog is nearly invisible. But over time, something fascinating begins to happen. When I write and publish, I can actually feel the energy start to move. That’s what I call blog power. After the two-year mark, I began to write more carefully, more intentionally. I think the first year is the hardest, and the first three months are especially crucial. If you can make it past three months, please keep going. Plan in short cycles—three months, then another three. It becomes easier to manage, like a long-distance run made up of short sprints. Eventually, you become a better writer without even realizing it. Even writing emails or artist statements becomes less painful. Sometimes, I even find myself editing ChatGPT’s suggestions. Writing every day makes you sharp. And yes, I recommend using ChatGPT as a writing assistant—especially in the beginning. It helps you organize your thoughts and gives your writing a structure. But don’t overuse it. The key is to let it support you, not replace you. If possible, create a personal symbol or mascot. Mine is a snail named "Anna." I imagined her as slow but steady—moving forward with quiet determination. That image helped me persevere. Over time, she became part of my brand, too. You don’t need to know what your favorite topic is from the beginning. Just write. When you write enough, patterns begin to appear. For me, blogging revealed my deep interest in education, which eventually led me to graduate school. In the beginning, it might feel like talking to a wall. But imagine there are people behind that wall, quietly listening. The early phase comes with very little response. Even if you monetize your blog with AdSense, you might see almost no movement. This can be disheartening, but if you push through that wall, something amazing happens. I used to imagine myself stacking stones in a large plaza surrounded by high walls. One by one, I would place them, hoping that someday they'd rise high enough to be seen. That’s how I survived the quiet years. Blogging can be deceptive because we often expect instant results. We read success stories and assume we'll go viral too. But most of those stories are exaggerated or commercialized. The real, honest journeys are often invisible. Along the way, you’ll also face negativity—plagiarism, spam, scammers. It's exhausting. But over time, you get stronger. I became fast at reporting and blocking unethical behavior. I even have a section on my site now that explains how to do that. Despite it all, the moments of real connection make it worth it. When someone tells me they found hope or clarity through my writing, that joy is beyond words. It makes me want to share more, help more, and keep going. Blogging has made me a more open, active, and passionate person in both art and life. Now, in a beautiful twist, my son has told me he wants to start a blog. “Mom, can you help me start mine?” he said. And of course, I will—because he helped me start mine. Life really does come full circle.  |
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