Scott Brenner
As a software engineer, I made technology safe to use. Now I help people protect their accounts, devices, and privacy.
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⏱️ Too busy to read now? Key things to know:
► Scammers use screen sharing to see your passwords, emails, and accounts.
► Never share your screen with anyone who contacted you first.
► Real support rarely needs full screen access for basic issues.
My sister-in-law called me in a panic after trying to fix a problem with her email. She had found a "support" number online, called it, and was told the fastest way to help was to share her screen.
It sounded reasonable.
Once she did, the person on the other end could see everything: Her inbox. Password reset emails. Notifications popping up from her bank.
He then walked her through some fake "steps to fix her problem", but they were really just guiding her to give him remote access.
She was lucky because she got suspicious. She hung up before any of her accounts were hacked or money transferred. But the damage could have been much worse.
Screen sharing is a useful tool when you are working with someone you truly trust. But scammers love it because it lets them:
🚩 Guide you to dangerous websites
🚩 Learn exactly which accounts you use
🚩 Watch you type usernames and passwords
🚩 See one-time security codes as they appear
🚩 Help you install software that gives them control
Once they can see your screen, you are vulnerable.
Here is the simple rule: Never share your screen with anyone who contacted you first (by any method: phone, email, or text message).
If you really need help, you should initiate the contact using the official website of the company who makes the app, software, or website you're having trouble with. Even then, be cautious. Real tech support rarely needs full screen access and control for most issues.
Safer ways to get help:
✅ Call or chat only through official websites you type in yourself, not a clicked link.
✅ Close sensitive apps before starting any support session.
✅ Never share security codes, even if they ask.
✅ Hang up if anything feels rushed or strange.
⏱️ This week's action:
Think about the last time you asked for tech help. Promise yourself that you will never share your screen unless you started the contact and fully trust who you are talking to.
Being polite is good. Being cautious is better.
Not sure what other simple mistakes could open the door to scammers or hackers?
That's why I created the 15-Minute Online Safety Checkup. It helps you find the gaps that matter most and shows you how to fix them.
👉 Get Your 15-Minute Online Safety Checkup
It's only $7 and takes about 15 minutes.
Get peace of mind in less time than it takes to drink your coffee.
Plus, you'll get a free bonus guide called 5 Phishing Red Flags Most Travelers Miss to keep you safer while traveling.
Stay safe,
OnlineSafetyZone.com
PS - If you'd like me to cover another online safety topic that's been nagging at you, just hit reply and tell me.
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