Remote access scams alone cost Australians millions of dollars last year, but by just being aware of these types of scams will help protect you.
Remote access software allows someone to access a device, such as your computer or mobile phone, from anywhere, anytime – without needing to be anywhere near the device. Unfortunately, scammers will sometimes use genuine remote access software, identical to that used by your local computer technician.
How Remote Access Scams Work
Scammers may contact you via phone, SMS, or a pop-up on your computer, impersonating an organisation such as your telecommunications provider, bank, or the police.
They will try to pressure you into giving them remote access to your device – so they can access your information or bank accounts.
Often, they will create a sense of urgency, telling you you’re in some sort of trouble and they need to investigate a fraud issue on your account.
You might be asked to download special software to give them access to your device and personal information – if you do, they may be able to steal information from your device or transfer money out of your accounts.
How to Protect Yourself
Be cautious: the organisation that is being impersonated has an independent contact number eg found on your bill, or in the white or yellow pages. Phone that number and identify if there really is an issue.
Never provide remote access to your devices if you’ve been contacted unexpectedly.
Don’t act on a request if someone tells you to move your money to a “safe” account, or to prove your identification.
Realise there is no urgency so great you can’t investigate it yourself. You have time to follow up by doing your own research; calling those trusted, independently researched numbers; going into the providers office, in person.
If in doubt, call your friendly, local team at The Laptop Man on 07 49534580 so you can get on with life, confident you are in control of your online safety.
