Screen sharing features refer to the function of sharing your computer screen or mobile screen with others during online meetings or remote work. This function can facilitate communication and collaboration, but it also poses some cyber security risks that may make you a target of scammers or hackers. According to a notice from the Judiciary Police, this function is also a tool for phone scammers.
Scammers may pretend to be government officials, customer service representatives, or bank employees, claiming to assist you with online video call investigation, problem solving, account updating, benefit claiming and so on. Then, they ask you to download unknown applications (APPs) or share your screen with them, and instruct you to input personal information, bank account passwords, verification codes, transfer money, etc. In fact, once you share your screen with them, they can see what you type and may also install malicious software, steal your data and control your device without your knowledge.
To prevent above risks, here are some information security tips:
- Do not share your screen with strangers or people whose identity you have not verified;
- Do not click on suspicious links or open suspicious attachments;
- Do not download or install applications (APPs) or software from unknown sources;
- Do not turn on screen sharing features or input confidential data when using public WiFi;
- Choose a reputable software or platform with data encryption function to share your screen;
- Only share the necessary content when sharing your screen, and monitor the scope and duration of the sharing;
- End the meeting and log out of the software or platform immediately after sharing your screen.
Remember to stay alert and be careful when using screen sharing features and do not let yourself to become a victim of scams.
Reference
Judiciary Police – Police Information Circular
Know social engineering and beware of phone scams
How to download and install software in a secure manner?