Remote access from scammers on Win11

Windows Remote Assistance lets someone you trust access to your computer from any location in order to assist with resolving problems. You should only allow a helper to connect to your device if you initiated the interaction by contacting a reputable Tech Repair Service or Microsoft Support directly. In some cases the need for assistance may be needed immediately so this is why Microsoft allowed this capability

However, scammers and criminals are known to use (misuse) legitimate programs like Remote Desktop and TeamViewer to help facilitate nefarious actives such as hacking a computer in order to steal data, commit identity theft and spread malware.

Microsoft can only warn users about scammers which they have been doing for years as I explain in detail in this topic.
 
Security ultimately is the responsibility of each individual user which is the reason Microsoft provides numerous Support articles to help folks ensure they are safe. If they choose to ignore those warnings, neither Microsoft or anyone else cannot protect them.

Security is all about layers and not depending on any one solution, technology or approach to protect yourself from cyber-criminals. The most important layer is you...the first and last line of defense.

If scammers aim to utilize native Windows remote applications, two primary apps come to mind:

Quick Assist: Available in both Home and Pro editions, Quick Assist allows Microsoft support to remotely access a user's computer for troubleshooting via the Get Help app. However, for remote control, user consent is required; otherwise, the support session is limited to viewing only. Scammers typically avoid this tool as it requires explicit permission to control, limiting their ability to access sensitive information.

Remote Desktop: This application is available on both Home and Pro editions of Windows, but only Pro edition users can host a remote desktop session. It's particularly useful for managing multiple computers within a network.

Both applications come pre-installed with Windows OS and can be uninstalled. However, it's essential to recognize that scammers constantly adapt their methods. Therefore, simply removing potential tools is not a viable solution, as many of these tools are crucial for legitimate personal and business activities.

The most effective strategy against scams is ongoing education and awareness. You're absolutely right; I've also witnessed others getting scammed. As a rule of thumb, it's safest to only use the Get Help app for official Microsoft support. And remember that Microsoft does not provide a direct phone line for home user support.

I don't see how this would change with the Windows 11 upgrade. Quick Assist and Remote Desktop are part of Win11 as well.

Hello,

IT support scams are unfortunately very common, and the most effective way to prevent them is through user awareness and education.

It’s important to remember: Microsoft will never ask you to call them. If you need support from Microsoft, always use the Get Help app built into Windows.

Scammers often trigger fake pop-ups using online ads. These pop-ups can appear on legitimate websites because many sites rely on third-party advertising services, which sometimes fail to properly filter out malicious ads. This doesn’t necessarily mean the website is unsafe, but it does highlight a risk in the ad content.

If you encounter one of these pop-ups:

Press Ctrl + Alt + Del

Open Task Manager

End all browser tasks

This will close the browser and remove any pop-ups, even those that take over the full screen or play alarming sounds to make the situation seem urgent or dangerous.

For more details on how to recognize and protect yourself from tech support scams, visit: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/pro...

I allowed TAT Software remote access to my laptop and the performed a one time fix for $154 then suggested i download Symantec End Time Protection for $499.

I understand that scammers are out there.I just want to know the reasoning of pre-installed remote access software? Usually they would have users install third party software that we could blacklist and educate users to not use spareingly. My friend legitimately thought they were Microsoft support because that software was already on her computer and was very easy to setup! I believe that she is not the first or last person that will fall for this.

Also, with the looming EoL of win10, how will Microsoft address these issues as people upgrade to the new software?