1. Check your appointment.
Ask: “Did I arrange this visit?” If not, do not allow access.
Before You Let Someone Connect to Your Computer
Windows & Mac · One calm step at a time.
Confirm an arranged visit, protect private information and learn how to end sharing. If access was suspicious, start with the recovery section. Ending a session does not prove that your computer or accounts are safe.
PDF · 8 pages · Large print · 1301 KB
Before you allow a connection
Unexpected contact? Do not grant access. Confirm with a helper you know.
2. Call your trusted helper.
Use a number you already know. Do not use a pop-up’s number.
3. Ask about the access.
Ask what they will see or control. Wait until you understand.
Prepare for an arranged session
A verified helper’s connection code is different from your account sign-in code.
4. Close private windows.
Close banking, email and private documents before sharing.
5. Keep your secrets private.
Do not read out passwords or account sign-in codes.
6. Stay at the computer.
Watch the session as it happens. Stop if anything feels wrong.
End the session yourself
Quick Assist: Cancel control does not end sharing. Other apps may use Disconnect.
7. Windows: choose Leave.
In Quick Assist, click Leave when the session is finished.
8. Mac: open sharing menu.
For FaceTime, click the screen-sharing button in the menu bar.
9. Mac: click Stop Sharing.
Choose Stop Sharing in the menu. Check that sharing has ended.
Suspicious access? Act now.
Cannot stop it? Shut down. Hanging up the phone alone does not end access.
10. Disconnect the internet.
Turn off Wi-Fi and unplug any network cable on this computer.
11. Call someone you trust.
Use another trusted phone or computer to ask for help.
12. Contact your bank now.
If money or bank details were exposed, call its official number.
Protect accounts and the computer
A trusted helper can reconnect for updates and review sign-ins and recovery details.
13. Change exposed passwords.
Use another trusted device. Start with your email account.
14. Turn on two-factor sign-in.
Use an extra sign-in check where your accounts offer it.
15. Have the computer checked.
Ask a trusted helper to review security and remote-access apps.
Record, report and return safely
Do not pay a stranger who promises to recover your money. Keep using trusted contacts.
16. Keep a record.
Write down dates, caller and app. Save messages and receipts.
17. Report the scam.
On a trusted device, visit ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
18. Wait for a trusted review.
Use the affected computer for sensitive accounts only after review.
Sources and further help
- Microsoft: Quick Assist
- Apple: FaceTime screen sharing
- FTC: Tech support scams
- FTC: What to do if you were scammed
- FTC: Cybersecurity
Sources reviewed October 27, 2026. These are teaching illustrations, not a test of a live remote connection.