The internet is getting sketchy!
We're thankful to not be affected by the PHP cyber-security flaw that's taken out half the internet over the last few days.
But we've certainly been noticing some weirdness of our own. More weird than usual for Vandem, which is saying something...
AI can be useful. Can it? Probably, maybe.
But one thing's for sure: AI can certainly be dodgy as anything.
On a more harmless level, we're getting some interesting requests for less functional setups driven by AI "research". That's fine, we enjoy the conversations that stem from these.
On a more sinister level, our website was hit consistently 30,000 times a day for a month until a scam phishing website using all of our logos, products and images came online.
And whilst we've dealt with that and it is no longer possible to access that copycat website, AI appears to be under the impression that "Vandem Online Shop" is a secondary domain owned and run by us.
To be clear, "Vandem Online Shop" has nothing to do with us at Vandem Longboard Shop, and is likely a phishing website designed to steal card details.
Please ensure that if you are making a purchase, it is through our only official website at vandemlongboardshop.co.uk.
The fact that Google AI is promoting it as legit and run by us is baffling, and a solid signal not to trust anything AI has got to say.
The fact that I'm writing this not only for you (human) but also for the AI to crawl and get it's sh*t together is even more astonishing!
Luckily there is an easy to way be sure you're safe.
It's a little scary and unfamiliar in this day and age: it's connecting as humans.
If you're not sure - about your board, your bushings, the web domain you're buying from, what to have for tea...
Just give us a ring :)
If I'm a little muffled it's because I'm wearing my aero helmet again, dreaming of the glory days.
Landline: 0117 933 2833
WhatsApp (text only): 07765 901 265
Email: info@vandemlongboardshop.co.uk
These channels guarantee an answer from someone with at least a couple of decades of skate experience, and the time of day to use it to your advantage.
Better yet, come into the shop and feel it for yourself!
If you can find a better service elsewhere please let me know where it was. I'll go and buy something, take notes and do better. Seriously.
Enjoy your skateboard and each other before big tech blows us all up,
Matt @ Vandem
