Gave Remote Access to a Scammer?Here Is What to Do Next
The FBI logged 53,369 tech support fraud complaints with $1.9 billion in losses. If you gave remote access to someone posing as Microsoft, Apple, or your ISP, your computer and accounts may be compromised. Act now.
5 Steps After a Tech Support Scam
The longer malware remains, the more data is at risk.
Disconnect from the internet immediately. Turn off Wi-Fi.
Force-quit AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or any remote access software
Change all passwords from a clean device, starting with email
Contact your bank to freeze cards and dispute unauthorized charges
Report to FTC and FBI IC3 at ic3.gov
Recovery Services
Deep Forensic Malware Scan
Enterprise EDR tools find rootkits, fileless malware, registry modifications, and scheduled tasks that consumer antivirus misses.
Remote Access Elimination
Audit all installed applications, browser extensions, and startup programs. Remove every hidden access point the scammer left behind.
Account Recovery and Hardening
Reset every compromised account, set up MFA, review connected apps, and reverse any recovery setting changes the scammer made.
Financial Fraud Reporting
Help filing reports with FTC, FBI IC3, bank, and credit bureaus. Forensic evidence preservation for law enforcement investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can scammers still access my computer after disconnecting?
No, disconnecting cuts off remote access. But scammers install persistent backdoors that reconnect automatically when you go back online. Full malware removal is needed before reconnecting.
What can scammers steal with remote access?
Everything on your screen, saved browser passwords, personal files, email and cloud accounts, and they can initiate bank transfers or install keyloggers for future theft.
Should I call my bank?
Yes, immediately if you shared financial info, gave credit card details, or were logged into banking during the session. Request a freeze and file disputes within 60 days.
How do I know if malware was installed?
Signs include new programs, slower performance, browser redirects, disabled antivirus. But sophisticated malware is invisible. Consumer AV catches 60-70%. Enterprise EDR tools catch 95%+.
Related Resources
Scammers Move Fast. You Should Too.
Same-day remote triage available. Do not wait until the damage gets worse.