Disable Remote Access to Your Computers

What it is:

Remote access or remote assistance is a feature that allows entrance to your computer. Some of the dangers of a home or business computer being accessed are clear and others are less obvious.

Dangers of Remote Access to Your Computers - You Might Know These:

•  Access Confidential Data Files
• Use Your Computer to Send Spam Emails
• Install Malware that Records Keystrokes to Access Passwords and Account Numbers

Dangers of Remote Access to Your Computers -Less Known:

• Use Your Computer to Attack Another Computer or Web Server
• Use Your Computer to Launch a Worm, Virus, or Malware
• Use Your Computer to Tie Up a Network's Resources
• Use Your Computer to Spy in a Large Network
• Use Your Computer to Hide a Hacker's Identity

 

Why is it a Problem:

In this video by the BBB, a remote access scam is described. A phone call is received from someone claiming to be tech support at Apple. They claim your iCloud account has been hacked. They say the good news is they can fix the problem with remote access to your computer. Once they have access to your computer they can copy your private files, install malware, or perform any other breaches as described in the lists above.

How to Fix the Problem:

Remote access can be easily disabled. If it is ever needed for a legitimate reason, the process can be reversed. Since every version of Windows has a different path to reach remote settings, the easiest way to find your process is to run a google search.

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