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You get a phone call, email or pop-up message telling you there's a problem with your phone or computer - maybe it's a problem with an account or a virus has been detected.
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The caller may pretend they're calling from a well-known bank, internet, phone, software, or web security business and say the situation is urgent, but don't worry, they say, they can help you 'fix the problem' - all you have to do is download some well-known screen sharing or remote access software.
If you sound surprised or unsure they may tell you if you don't do what they say and let them fix the problem your account will be deactivated.
The caller sounds professional, concerned and helpful but before you know it, they are into your bank account and fleecing it for all it's worth.
Once you have downloaded the software or app they recommend, the scammers can remotely take control of your device. They don't "fix" the problem because there was never a problem to fix.
They ask you to tell them your banking passwords or one-time security codes.
You might not realise they have emptied your bank accounts until the next time you log in.
They are called remote access scams and Australians reported losing $15.5 million to these scams in 2023, with criminals stealing averages in the tens of thousands of dollars.
Reported losses to remote access scams in the first quarter of 2024 increased by 52 per cent compared to the previous quarter and the average loss per scam victim increased by 57 per cent to $17,943
Australians over 65 years old lost the most money.
Read more from The Senior
![ACCC warns of scammers who persuade people to hand over control of their electronic devices and then empty their bank accounts. Picture Jane Dyson ACCC warns of scammers who persuade people to hand over control of their electronic devices and then empty their bank accounts. Picture Jane Dyson](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/zFAiTDuEg3GdzaaJJ3MGNK/7a15eea0-e944-4968-8357-daec81d3f34c.jpg/r0_26_512_314_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
"We are very concerned scammers are draining entire bank accounts," ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said.
"The scammer will sound professional and offer to help resolve the problem, by instructing the victim to download well-known screen sharing software such as AnyDesk, Zoho or Teamviewer. Unfortunately, by doing so, the scammer can gain access to their bank accounts," Ms Lowe said.
How to protect yourself
STOP - Don't rush to act. Hang up on anyone asking you to download software or an app over the phone. Never provide banking information, passwords, or 2-factor identification codes over the phone.
THINK - Ask yourself if you really know who you are communicating with? Take the time to call the business you're dealing with using independently sourced contact details, or check you're talking to a real employee using their secure app.
PROTECT - Act quickly if something feels wrong. If you've shared financial information or transferred money, contact your bank immediately. Help others by reporting to Scamwatch.
If you've been affected
If you have lost money, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.
If you've had personal information stolen or need support to recover from a scam, contact IDCARE on 1800 595 160.
Tell your friends and family, share your experience, get support and help to protect others from scams.