08/25/2026
🚨 **The Biggest Computer Scam Problem We’re Seeing Right Now: Remote Access Scams**
At 191 Incorporated, we deal with scams, malware, hacked accounts and suspicious emails regularly. But one problem has become especially concerning: **scammers convincing people to give them remote access to their computers.**
It often starts with a phone call, text, email or pop-up claiming there is an urgent problem:
• “Your Microsoft account has been compromised.”
• “There’s a problem with your Amazon order.”
• “Your bank account has suspicious activity.”
• “Your computer has a virus.”
• “Your subscription is being renewed for $499.”
• “We need to issue you a refund.”
The scammer then asks you to install a remote-access program or give them an access code.
**Once you do that, they can see and control your computer just as if they were sitting in front of it.**
They may watch you enter passwords, access your email, manipulate what appears on your screen, attempt to access bank accounts, steal personal information, or install additional software that allows them to come back later.
⚠️ **Our advice is simple: Never give an unexpected caller remote access to your computer.**
Microsoft, your bank, Amazon, PayPal and other legitimate companies are not going to unexpectedly call you and ask you to install remote-control software so they can “fix” your computer.
If you're contacted about a supposed problem, **hang up. Don't click the link. Don't install anything.** Contact the company yourself using a phone number or website you already know is legitimate.
# # # Already let someone into your computer?
Don't assume that closing the remote session solved the problem.
Disconnect the computer from the Internet and have it checked for remote-access software, startup programs, browser changes and anything else the scammer may have installed. Passwords and financial accounts may also need to be secured.
If you're unsure what happened, **191 Incorporated can help determine what was installed, remove unauthorized remote access and make sure your computer is safe to use again.**
**Please share this with parents, grandparents, friends and anyone who may not recognize how convincing these scams have become.** A five-minute conversation beforehand can prevent a very expensive mistake.
