AnyDesk Scams Explained
AnyDesk is a software that allows remote access and control of computers and mobile devices. It is used by millions of IT professionals and support agents worldwide to help with technical issues. However, it is also a tool that scammers can misuse to steal your data, money, or access codes. In this blog post, we will explain how AnyDesk scams work and how to avoid them.
How AnyDesk Scams Work
AnyDesk scams are a type of technical support scam in which fraudsters convince targets to download AnyDesk — allowing scammers to remotely access their victims’ devices. For example, a Rhode Island woman received a fake online notification claiming that her iPad was compromised. But when she called the number for Apple support listed on the pop-up, she was told to download AnyDesk. With AnyDesk installed, fraudsters had full access to the victim’s computer — allowing them to steal sensitive information, manipulate everything the woman was seeing on her screen, and eventually convince her to wire them over $200,000 .
What is voice cloning technology?
Scammers can use various tactics to trick you into downloading AnyDesk and sharing your unique access code, such as:
- Pretending to be from a reputable company such as Microsoft, Apple, or your bank and offering to help you with a computer or internet problem
- Sending you fake emails or text messages with links or attachments that install AnyDesk or other malware on your device
- Calling you and claiming that you have won a prize or a refund and asking you to download AnyDesk to verify your identity or process your payment
- Using SIM-swapping techniques to hijack your phone number and intercept your verification codes
Once scammers have remote access to your device, they can do various malicious activities, such as:
- Searching your device for sensitive files, photos and documents they can use for blackmail or to steal your identity
- Stealing your passwords and gaining access to your bank, email, social media, and other online accounts
- Spying on you as you use your device, sometimes even accessing your camera or microphone
- Manipulating your screen to make it look like there are issues with your bank account — and then tricking you into sending them money
How to Avoid AnyDesk Scams
To protect yourself from AnyDesk scams, you should follow these simple rules:
- Never give anyone you don’t know access to your devices
- Never share online banking login details or any passwords with anyone
- Never trust a call, email, or text message you weren’t expecting
- Never download software from untrusted sources or links
- Never send money or gift cards to anyone who claims to be from tech support or customer service
If you suspect that someone is trying to scam you using AnyDesk or other remote access software, you should:
- Hang up the phone or ignore the message
- Turn off your device or disconnect from the internet
- Report the scam to your account providers (i.e. bank, credit card institution, online paying systems)
- Change any passwords to accounts that may have been compromised
- Have your device checked by an IT-specialist
- Report the scam to your local authorities
Conclusion
AnyDesk is a legitimate software that can be used for good purposes, but it can also be abused by scammers who want to take over your device and steal from you. To avoid becoming a victim of AnyDesk scams, you should always be cautious and vigilant when someone asks you to download AnyDesk or share your access code. Remember: no bank or company will ask you over the phone to download software!
Sources:
https://www.aura.com/learn/anydesk-scams
https://anydesk.com/en/abuse-prevention
https://www.anyviewer.com/how-to/anydesk-scam-0427.html
https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/scammers-drain-bank-accounts-using-anydesk-and-sim-swapping/
