SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sec-remote-access-request
A caller claiming to be tech support wants you to install software. What are they after?
Remote access to your computer.
- A free diagnostic of your printer
- Remote access to your computer ✔
- Permission to update your warranty
Why: With remote access they can see your screen, steal passwords and install malware. Then they claim to find a problem and ask for payment.
Huh, didn't know that: The FTC says scammers then offer to remove the pretend malware for a fee.
Why did the computer squeak? Because someone stepped on its mouse.
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References
Answer: Remote access to your computer. With remote access they can see your screen, steal passwords and install malware. Then they claim to find a problem and ask for payment.
- FTC: How to Spot, Avoid, and Report Tech Support Scams consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-tech-support-scams
they ask for remote access to your computer and pretend to scan it for viruses.
Checked 2026-10-10.
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