Threat actors have time and again proved their agility when it comes to devising new phishing tactics. They are always the first ones to hop onto the latest trends to exploit naive users. One such phishing activity that breaks into the bank accounts of innocent users is screensharing fraud.
Basically, the threat actors pretend to be the customer care executives of big brands and request the users to download screen-sharing apps in order to facilitate seamless resolutions. The core idea is to gain access to your device, passwords, and accounts.
The phishing actors get in touch with you when you are least expecting any such move. For instance, the fraudsters can try to connect with you through social media platforms. Or they can send SMSes to gain your trust.
How Do Scamsters Make The Most Out Of Screensharing Apps?
Remote access fraud or screen sharing scams have become a popular pick among fraudsters. Here’s how they exploit advanced technology to access sensitive data of users:
- They pose as customer support team members, calling from banks, investment firms, and reputed brands.
- They try to persuade the users to download a screen-sharing app or software so that the communication gets hassle-free and seamless.
- Through these screensharing apps, the scammers can view the device screens of the victims.
- Next, they start making notes of sensitive data such as passwords, login credentials, private information, etc.
- Apart from screensharing apps, the fraudsters also try to convince the users to download remote access software.
- By using this software, the phishing actors can get complete access to your laptop/phone and misuse all your data and files.
Image sourced from getonecard.app
Popular Screensharing Apps Used By Scammers To Rob Your Hard-Earned Money!
How to Protect Yourself From Screensharing Scams?
- Are you called out of the blue for making that investment? Were you not looking for something similar in the first place? Then, in all probability, the caller can be a scammer trying to get access to your device screen. Hang up on the call immediately!
- Never search for customer care contact details on any search engine. Simply go to the official website of the brand you wish to get in touch with. And then visit their “Contact Us” section. You will get all their contact details from there.
- Ignore the messages, emails, and WhatsApp audio notes that want you to call back on a given number to claim certain reward points and lottery offers.
- Use a two-factor authentication feature to add an extra layer of protection for social media profiles, banking apps as well as UPIs.
- Always download legitimate screen-sharing apps and software from the Play Store and App Store.
- Avoid installing screen-sharing apps while on call.
Screensharing apps are meant to offer seamless instructions to help employees, team members, and students understand project details. It bridges the gap between users who have joined the meeting from across different corners of the world.
However, threat actors have started leveraging these apps to carry out their malicious activities. Staying alert and implementing measures such as phishing protection and cybersecurity solutions are essential in protecting your sensitive data from scammers! Additionally, undertaking phishing awareness training can provide the necessary knowledge to stay ahead of these deceitful fraudsters.