Remote access tools are legitimate when you choose to use them with a trusted support person. The scam starts when a popup, caller, or fake support agent pressures you to install one so they can control the computer.
Does this affect you?
Use this for Windows PCs and Macs after a caller, popup, chat agent, bank impersonator, or tech-support message asked you to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer, LogMeIn, Windows Quick Assist, or a similar remote-control app.
Cut off access and secure the computer
Do this immediately, even if the person is still talking.
- Disconnect the computer from the internet by turning off Wi-Fi or unplugging Ethernet. Getting the scammer off the connection matters more than closing windows neatly.
- Hang up or end the chat. Ignore claims that disconnecting will damage the computer, cancel a refund, or make the problem worse.
- While offline, uninstall the remote access app through Settings > Apps on Windows or Applications on Mac.
- Reconnect and run a full scan with Windows Security or a reputable Mac security tool.
- If you logged in to banking, email, shopping, or other accounts while they could see the screen, change those passwords from a different device they never controlled.
Protect your accounts and money afterward
A remote session may expose more than one account.
- Change passwords for email, banking, and any account opened during or shortly before the session. Start with email because it resets other accounts.
- Call your bank using the number on the card if you opened online banking, discussed a refund, or moved money during the call. Ask for a fraud review.
- If you paid by card, wire, gift card, or payment app, contact the issuer or provider immediately and ask about stopping or disputing the payment.
- Place a free credit freeze with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion if personal documents or a Social Security number may have been visible.
- Report the incident at reportfraud.ftc.gov and identify it as a tech support or remote access scam where appropriate.
Recognize the scam before installing anything
The best defense is refusing unsolicited remote control.
- Treat popups that say your computer is infected and provide a phone number as fake. Real security tools do not ask you to call a random number.
- Be suspicious of unexpected calls from Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, banks, or security departments. These organizations do not cold-call to fix viruses.
- Do not install remote access software because a caller asks, even if they know your name, address, or partial account details. That information may come from data breaches.
- If a bank caller claims fraud, hang up and call the number on the back of your card. A real fraud alert survives independent verification.
More control
Real remote support starts with you
Legitimate support usually begins because you contacted the company first. Stay at the computer and watch the whole session. End it if the technician opens banking, email, or password manager pages unrelated to the support issue.
Session codes are not permanent permission
Many legitimate tools use one-time codes that expire. Still, once a stranger has active control, they can act quickly, so disconnect first if you suspect a scam.
Sources
- FTC Consumer Advice – Tech Support Scams (2025)
- FBI – Tech Support Fraud (2025)
- Microsoft – Protect Yourself From Tech Support Scams (2025)