Don’t fall for screen sharing scams

Letting someone view your screen may seem harmless, but it can put you at serious risk if you’re not careful.

Giving someone access to your screen or control of your device can lead to identity theft, emptied bank accounts, and stolen personal information.

Our fraud expert, Lucy Brown, explains the dangers of screen sharing and remote access scams.

What’s screen sharing software?

Screen sharing software are digital tools that allow you to show your device’s screen (usually your computer, laptop, or phone) to others online.

This means everyone can see what’s happening on your screen, even if they aren’t physically near your device.

In today’s digital age, many of us use these tools daily through platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, or Teams. When used correctly, screen sharing software can be a helpful tool.

It can be useful for work tasks, like team meetings, solving tech issues or giving demonstrations.

Or some people use it for gaming with friends, getting help with tech from family or collaborating on creative projects.

What’s remote access software?

Remote access software is slightly different. Instead of just viewing your screen, remote access allows someone to fully control your device - whether it’s a laptop, computer, or phone - from a distance.

To give remote access, you typically need to download software and share a code with the other person, which gives them control of your device.

Remote access tools like TeamViewer and AnyDesk are usually legitimately used by IT technicians to remotely fix issues with employee’s computers. 

What are screen-sharing scams?

Screen sharing scams, or remote access fraud, happens when a criminal deceives you into downloading software that lets them see or control your device.

They then use this to steal your private information, access your accounts or even take your money.

Here’s how it works:

• A scammer contacts you. They reach out to you unexpectedly, often through social media, a phone call, or email.

• They gain your trust. The hacker pretends to be someone trustworthy, like an investment advisor with a promising opportunity. Or an IT technician from a tech company offering to fix a problem with your device. They could even pretend to be from a business you hold an account with, such as your bank. 

• They convince you to get the software. The scammer tricks you into downloading screen sharing or remote access tools. They might even direct you to a fake website, where clicking on their links automatically starts the download.

• They get you to grant access. The fraudster then manipulates you into showing personal data while sharing your screen (screen sharing scam). Or the get you to hand over full control of your device (remote access scam).

What happens next?

Once a criminal has full control of your device, they could:

• Steal your personal information: This includes personal data, passwords and bank details, which can lead to identity theft and financial losses.

• Look at your files: They’ll be able to see everything on your device.

• Lock you out: They could change your passwords or install software so you can’t regain control of your device.

• Hide what they’re doing: They might block your screen, especially if they’re accessing your bank accounts, so you can’t see what’s happening.

A real case from our fraud team

Unfortunately, when someone falls victim to remote access or screen sharing scam, the losses are often severe.

We recently handled a case involving Jess*, who became a victim of this type of scam.

She clicked on a website promoting investments and was then contacted by someone pretending to be a financial advisor.

After downloading the software, the fraudsters had open access to all the financial details on her computer.  

The scammers were then able to open bank accounts in her name, take out multiple loans and empty her savings and pension.

*We've not used her real name for security reasons 

Fraud expert Lucy Brown warns

"This case shows just how dangerous remote access and screen sharing scams can be.

Once a scammer gains control of your device, they can access a large amount of your personal information.

With this, they can commit financial and identity fraud often leaving you with devastating consequences.

Always be cautious and never download remote access software if someone contacts you out of the blue – this is a clear sign of a scam.”

How to avoid screen-sharing scams

• Be cautious if you’ve been contacted unexpectedly. If someone you don’t know reaches out and tells you to act fast, it’s a big sign that it could be a scam.

• Never download remote access software or share your screen with strangers. Legitimate organisations like your bank or investment advisors won’t ask you to download remote access software.

• Don’t click on links from people you don’t know. These links can lead to harmful websites or start downloading dangerous software.

• Remember that sharing access codes can give someone control of your device. Always think twice before sharing access codes, as they can allow others to take full control of your device.

• Always double-check who is asking for access to your device. Before giving anyone access, always make sure to independently confirm their identity though another method, such as contacting the company directly.

Key Takeaways

These types of scams can have devastating consequences. Once scammers gain control of your device, they can steal your personal data, including your banking information.

This can lead to major financial losses, like drained savings or loans taken out in your name.

Protect yourself by always being wary of unexpected requests to share your screen or download software.