Quick answer: do not give control yet
If someone you did not contact asks to control your computer, phone or tablet, stop before installing anything. Do not read out codes, approve screen sharing, or let them see your banking, email, photos or passwords.
Close the message or end the call. Then check the request using a safe page you opened yourself.
Common warning signs
A popup says your device is infected and tells you to call a number immediately.
A caller claims to be from a bank, Microsoft, Telstra, NBN, antivirus company, delivery company, police or government service and asks for remote access.
They ask you to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer, QuickSupport, RustDesk, Chrome Remote Desktop or another screen-sharing app.
They tell you not to speak to family, your bank or your normal IT support person.
A safer next step
Use your own trusted contact method. For a bank, call the number on your card or in your banking app. For a business, open their website yourself. For tech help, contact someone you already know and trust.
A real support person should be comfortable with you pausing, checking their identity and choosing a safe time to continue.
If you nearly installed the app
If you downloaded the app but did not give control, remove it and do not share any access codes. If you did give control, use the recovery guide for remote access already given, because the steps are different.
Use the free checker before the next step
These free tools are a first check only. They are not a guarantee and they are not a substitute for professional advice, your bank, police, ReportCyber, IDCARE or a qualified specialist where needed.
Is remote access always unsafe?
No. Remote access can be safe when you chose the provider and trust them. The risk is when a stranger, popup or caller pressures you to install it quickly.
What if the caller says they are from my bank or Microsoft?
End the call and contact the organisation using a number you already trust. Do not use a number or link supplied by the caller.
Should I let someone watch my screen while I log in to banking?
No. Do not open banking, email, password managers, myGov or private files while an unknown person can see or control your screen.