Look at who started the conversation
- Scammers often claim to be Microsoft, your bank, an internet provider, or a refund department without being contacted.
- A real helper should have a business identity you can verify independently.
- Use contact information from the provider's known website, not a number displayed in a warning popup.
Keep control of the session
- For Swanson Tech Solutions support, you contact Cody first and receive instructions for the Splashtop SOS session.
- You share the code only when you are ready, watch the work, and can disconnect or exit the SOS app.
- Close banking, private messages, and sensitive files before a session. Type passwords yourself when possible.
Refuse financial pressure
- No legitimate repair requires gift cards, cryptocurrency, cash hidden in a package, or moving money to a "safe" account.
- Be cautious if someone asks you to hide the call from family, staff, or a bank.
- Stop immediately if the person opens financial accounts or asks you to ignore security warnings.
Stop guessing when the problem keeps coming back
If a stranger already had remote access, disconnect the computer from the internet and seek trusted help. Contact financial institutions promptly if money or account details were involved.