If scammers convince you to download AnyDesk and share your unique access code, they can gain remote control of your Apple, Windows, or Android device. For example, if an employee at a large company has a technical issue, someone on the IT team can use AnyDesk to “take over” the device and diagnose the problem.īut this level of access and control is equally enticing to cybercriminals. What Is AnyDesk? Is It Safe?ĪnyDesk is a legitimate software tool that allows people to remotely view and control computers and mobile devices. In this guide, we’ll explain how criminals use AnyDesk, common scams to watch out for, and how to keep yourself safe. If anyone asks you or a loved one to download AnyDesk, you need to be cautious. According to 2022 data from the FBI : Americans lost more than $800 million to tech support scams - many of which involved the use of remote access software like AnyDesk.

While AnyDesk is legitimate software used by support agents at many companies, it’s also a favorite tool of tech support scammers. The scammers ultimately convinced her to wire over $200,000 to them. With AnyDesk installed, fraudsters had full access to the victim’s computer - allowing them to steal sensitive information and manipulate everything the woman was seeing on her screen.

The support technician on the phone explained that someone had hacked her device and that she needed to download AnyDesk - an app that gives support agents remote access to your device - to help resolve the issue.īut in reality, the whole thing was a scam. When a Rhode Island woman received an online notification claiming that her iPad was compromised, she quickly called the number for Apple support listed on the pop-up. Did Someone Ask You To Download AnyDesk to Your Computer or Phone?

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