Can you imagine someone taking control of your computer?
This is exactly what happens when a scammer gets remote access.
Remote access scams, also known as technical support scams, are quite common and sometimes hard to spot. These scams are among the fastest growing in Australia according to the ACCC’s Scamwatch.
The most common type of remote access scam begins with a scammer calling an individual, posing as a technical support worker from a well-known business such as a telco, NBN provider or software platform. The caller will say there is something wrong with your computer, such as malware detected or that it has been compromised. They will ask to gain access to the computer or convince you to install an application to rectify the issue. Once they have access to the computer, they may ask for a fee to unlock the device.
The scammer will use technical language to seem legitimate or to create a sense of fear.
A scammer obtaining remote access to your computer can cause serious ongoing problems. They cannot only steal your money but also continue to access your computer and cause further harm. They may install keyloggers software; this software logs keystrokes and enables a scammer to steal your passwords and login information.
Real Life Example: Lauren was contacted by who she thought was a person from the security division of her NBN provider. They advised her that her account had been breached and asked for remote access to investigate the problem for her. After gaining access and identifying the problem, they encouraged her to take out expensive anti-malware software that cost $5,000. After that initial payment, further withdrawals from her account were made, without Lauren realising. She lost $9,000 in total, with only the initial transfer recovered.
Lauren is one of the many people who have fallen victim to a remote access scam. They are particularly difficult to identify as the scammer pretends to be calling from a legitimate service provider.
Don't ever think, it won't happen to me. Be wary of unsolicited calls or contacts claiming they need access to your computer and maintain good cyber practices. Never share your login details, use strong and unique passwords, beware of suspicious emails and keep your software up to date."
Another remote access scam to be aware of is, being prompted. An example of this is receiving a message or pop-up notice saying you have a problem. The message will instruct you to call a 1800 number for technical support. Once you call the number the scammer convinces you to give them remote access to your computer to solve the problem.
Remote Access trojans are a particular type of malware that allow a scammer to remotely control the victim’s machine or device. They can turn the camera on without activating the light and record and send the video files to themselves. This same software can be used to install keyloggers too.
Mark Zuckerberg tapes over his laptop camera and microphone! This would indicate concern about hackers gaining access to his devices by using remote-access trojans — a process called “ratting.”
Anyone can be targeted by remote access scams; text messages and emails are also used to deceive victims.
- Never give an unsolicited caller or contact remote access to your computer!
- Never share your login details with anyone.
- Never provide any personal details over the phone, by text message or by email to an unsolicited caller.
- If you receive an unexpected phone call, text or email about your computer and remote access is requested, hang up or delete it immediately. Even if they mention a well-known company or entity.
- Make sure your computer is protected with regularly updated anti-virus software that you have bought and installed yourself.
- Think about limiting admin access on your computer, so you can control who can install new programs and change security settings.
- Consider encrypting files containing sensitive information on your device or protecting them with additional passwords
- Know that while most remote-access methods target PCs and laptops, there has been an increase in the remote accessing of other devices, such as Android tablets and phones.
If you have given someone remote access to your computer, or you fear that your computer has been hacked, seek help or advice from a qualified and reputable computer technician.
If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.
You can report scams to the ACCC, which will help to warn others about current scams.
Spread the word to friends and family to help protect them from falling victim to online scams.
