Remote Access Scams on Facebook
Scammers use fake support pages and Messenger chats on Facebook to convince users to install remote-access tools, handing control of their devices to fraudsters.
Part of: Remote Access Scams
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
On Facebook a remote-access scam often starts where frustrated users go for help: a comment under a brand's post, a page styled as official 'support', or a Messenger reply to a complaint. The social setting makes the 'helpful technician' feel like genuine customer service.
The risk lies not in Facebook itself but in being talked into installing remote-control software or following a malicious link. Scammers exploit the platform's pages, comments, and Messenger to intercept people already seeking assistance and steer them into a live 'support' session.
How this scam works on Facebook
After you post a problem or search for a company, a fake 'support' account messages you offering to help. They present themselves as the brand's technical team and ask to 'remote in' to resolve the issue.
They direct you to install a remote-access application and grant control. Once connected, they can view your screen, access accounts, move funds, or stage a fake refund that pressures you to 'repay' an overpayment.
Because the contact arrived through what looked like official support, victims often comply before questioning why a fix requires handing over control of their device.
Common red flags
- A 'support' page or Messenger account offers to fix your device remotely
- You are asked to install remote-access software to resolve an issue
- The account contacts you after you posted a complaint or query
- The 'technician' wants to view your screen or bank login
- A fake refund 'overpayment' is used to demand you send money back
- The page name imitates an official brand but is not verified
How to protect yourself
- Never install remote-access software at the request of a Facebook 'support' contact
- Reach companies only through support details on their official website
- Do not let an unsolicited contact view your screen or accounts
- Be sceptical of 'support' accounts that message you first
- Verify any refund claim directly with your bank
- Report the page and block the account within Facebook
How to report it
- Use Facebook's 'Report' tool on the page or Messenger conversation
- Report the impersonation to the brand being spoofed via its official site
- File a report with your national fraud or cybercrime reporting centre
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell a genuine brand's Facebook support page from a fake one?
Check that the page matches the link listed on the company's official website, and look for the platform's verification badge as one additional signal, not proof on its own. Genuine support pages also generally don't message you first offering to remotely control your device after you post a complaint.
I let a Facebook 'technician' view my screen but didn't share bank details — am I safe?
Not entirely — while connected, a scammer can potentially see other sensitive information or install software without your noticing. Disconnect the session, uninstall any remote-access software, change your important passwords from another device, and monitor your accounts afterward.
Why does the fake refund 'overpayment' trick work on Facebook Messenger?
The scammer typically manipulates on-screen numbers during a remote session or shows a doctored screenshot to make it appear too much money was refunded, pressuring you to send the 'extra' amount back from your own account. No genuine refund process requires remote access to your device or repayment via gift cards or transfer.
A Facebook support page offered to fix my device — is that normal?
Genuine companies do not message you on Messenger asking to remotely control your device. Such offers come from scammers posing as support. Reach the company only through its official website and never grant remote access.