Anti-Phishing

Is it a scam when customer service asks me to open screen sharing? Remote assistance phishing

The attack pattern of phishers impersonating customer service and asking to turn on screen sharing / remote desktop: they can see passwords / verification codes, take screenshots of sensitive info, and how to deal with it.

"In order to help you solve the problem, please open screen sharing" — this is a classic scam. This article exposes it. Download access: Binance website, mobile Binance official app, if you don't have the App on iOS, see the iOS installation guide.

I. The Danger of Screen Sharing

Once screen sharing is turned on, the other party can see:

  • Your entire desktop
  • The passwords you type (even if displayed as asterisks, 2FA codes are not masked)
  • Authenticator 30-second codes
  • Email content (including anti-phishing codes)
  • Wallet mnemonic phrases

It only takes a few seconds for the other party to capture enough information to take over your account.

II. Scam Scripts

Script A: "I see abnormal activity on your account, let me check it remotely"

Going straight into screen sharing.

Script B: "There is an issue with your KYC, let me guide you through the process"

Asking you to share while operating.

Script C: "System problem requires diagnosis"

Disguised as a technical reason.

Script D: "You are a VIP customer, enjoy one-on-one service"

Flattery to make you drop your guard.

III. Iron Rule

Binance official never asks for screen sharing / remote desktop.

Any tool:

  • TeamViewer
  • AnyDesk
  • Zoom screen sharing
  • WeChat video screen sharing
  • Google Meet sharing
  • System built-in remote desktop

Any "screen sharing" invitation from any tool is a scam.

IV. Response Template

If you receive a message from "customer service" requesting screen sharing:

  1. Refuse directly: "Official customer service does not ask for screen sharing, you are a fake."
  2. Hang up all calls and videos.
  3. Block the other party.
  4. Check your account immediately (go to binance.com yourself, do not follow the steps "taught" by the other party).
  5. If you have already shared your screen before, handle it as an account theft emergency.

V. Related Scams: Remote Control Software

A more dangerous variant: asking you to install "maintenance tools". Once these tools are installed, the other party has complete control:

TeamViewer / AnyDesk Abuse

Tricking you into installing these legitimate tools, and then asking you to enter the "Session ID" provided by them. Once connected, the other party takes full control.

"Customer Service Dedicated" Client

Asking you to install a certain .exe or .apk. These are all remote control trojans.

VI. Emergency Response if You Have Accidentally Shared

If you have already turned it on:

  1. End sharing immediately
  2. Disconnect from the internet (unplug the network cable / turn off WiFi)
  3. Do not perform any sensitive operations on this device
  4. Log into binance.com on a clean device
  5. Change password + reset 2FA + delete APIs + revoke sessions
  6. Run an antivirus scan / flash the original device
  7. Change email password (the attacker may have also seen the anti-phishing code)

VII. Family Scenarios

Family members (especially the elderly) are easily fooled by "screen sharing tutorials":

  • They think it's technical support
  • They don't know how much information the screen exposes

Teach them:

  • Any request for "remotely check for me" is fake
  • If there is a real problem, they should inform you (the family security officer) first

VIII. Long-Term Defense

1. Do Not Install Sharing Software

Do not install TeamViewer / AnyDesk, etc. Install them only when needed, and uninstall them immediately after use.

2. System Remote Default Off

Windows Remote Desktop and Mac Remote Login are turned off by default.

3. Be Careful with Video Conferences

Confirm the other party's identity before joining a Zoom / Tencent Meeting. Do not display sensitive information on the screen during a meeting.

4. Do Not Log Into Binance on Company Computers

Company IT might remotely support your computer. Do not log into Binance in this environment.

FAQ

Q1: Screen sharing is just watching, not controlling, right? Watching is enough. Seeing the 2FA code + password is all they need to log in directly.

Q2: Is obfuscation software effective in preventing sharing? Some tools can hide specific windows during sharing. But fundamentally, you should not share your screen with "customer service".

Q3: Can I share with real friends? Temporary help between friends is fine, but avoid operating sensitive accounts while sharing.

Q4: Is it useful to report to the police after being scammed? Yes. Providing the tool account used by the attacker and chat logs will facilitate the police in filing a case.

Extended Reading

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