Account security · QUICK REFERENCE
Remote-access requests from strangers
A person claiming to fix an account problem may ask to view or control your device. Do not grant access based on an unsolicited message. Preserve the request and check it with the genuine organisation through a known channel.
A practical checklist
- Decline unexpected remote-control requests.
- Do not share your screen while sensitive records are open.
- Seek trusted technical help if access was already granted.
Putting it in context
Screen sharing can reveal codes, personal documents and unrelated accounts even when the person does not directly control the device. Consider the whole screen, not just the active tab.
Keep in mind
This page does not replace incident-response help for an already compromised device.
References & further reading
The checklist and examples are original editorial guidance. External links provide background within their stated scope; they do not validate an individual operator or case.
- NCSC: staying secure onlineUnited Kingdom · account-security guidance
- NCSC: phishing guidanceUnited Kingdom · suspicious-message guidance
About this edition: how the content is made · corrections & limitations