- Screen sharing scams, also known as remote access fraud, is when a criminal persuades you to download screen sharing or remote access software which is then used to steal sensitive information, access accounts, even transfer your funds.
- Criminals often pretend to be calling from your bank, recognised companies, or an investment firm. Callers are so convincing that they'll coerce victims to install legitimate screen sharing or remote access software.
- When it comes to screen sharing, there are two slightly different meanings to the phrase - Screen sharing, and remote access:
- Screen sharing involves a legitimate program like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and allows users to share their screen with other people. Criminals often manipulate victims so they can see their device screen, and observe sensitive/private information, such as logging into a bank account, or displaying their login details/password for an online store.
- Remote access software is legitimate programs such as AnyDesk, TeamViewer or LogMeIn. The software is commonly used by IT technicians to fix equipment remotely, rather than in person. Remote access screen sharing gives a stranger full control of your computer, laptop, or phone, and if a criminal gains access to your device, they may be able to see your files, data, and accounts.