🎭 Scene 1: The Call That Changed Everything
It was 4:22 PM when Mr. Tan, a 62-year-old retiree, received a call.
“Hello, Mr. Tan. This is Alex from your telco. We’ve detected that someone is trying to clone your phone. We need your help to stop it.”
The voice on the other end sounded calm. Professional. Helpful.
Mr. Tan sat upright, alarmed. “Clone? What do I need to do?”
“Don't worry, sir. We can assist you remotely. Please download a security app called AnyDesk so our technician can protect your device in real-time.”
Grateful that someone was looking out for him, Mr. Tan followed every instruction. Within 10 minutes, a stranger halfway across the world had full control of his phone—and his life savings.
By the next morning, Mr. Tan’s bank account was empty. 💸
📚 Scene 2: Understanding Remote Access Scams
Remote Access Scams (also called remote control scams) are digital impersonation attacks. The scammer pretends to be from a trusted organization—like your bank, telco, or government agency—and convinces you to install a “security app” so they can fix an urgent issue.
These “apps” are actually remote access tools like:
- AnyDesk
- TeamViewer
- Ultraviewer
- QuickSupport
- RustDesk
These tools were designed for IT helpdesks to assist users remotely. But in the hands of scammers, they become weapons.
What happens once you install them?
- The scammer gains full view and control of your device
- They can open your banking app and transfer funds
- They can intercept OTPs (One-Time Passwords)
- They can install more spyware, keyloggers, and viruses
All without you realizing it.
🚨 Scene 3: The Red Flags You Must Know
Remote Access Scams are manipulative by design. Here are the classic warning signs:
🚩 Red Flag
💬 How It Sounds
Scammer pretends to be an authority
“We’re from Singtel / Starhub / Maybank / LTA / Police.”
Creates urgency or fear
“Your SIM card is being cloned.” “There’s a hacker inside your phone.”
Asks you to install a remote access app
“Download this app so we can help you.”
Tells you to keep it a secret
“Don’t tell anyone or the hacker will know.”
Says you need to stay on the line
“Don’t hang up or the fix won’t work.”
If you hear any combination of these, hang up immediately. Trust your instincts, not the voice on the phone.
💡 Scene 4: What Scammers Gain — and What You Lose
When a scammer has control of your phone, they can:
- Access banking apps and transfer funds
- Read and delete SMS messages (including OTPs)
- Control your screen to prevent you from seeing what they’re doing
- Install background malware to track your activities for weeks
Even worse, some victims don’t realize they’ve been hacked until days later—because the scammer disables bank notifications or changes credentials silently.
Mr. Tan lost S$87,000. Others have lost hundreds of thousands.
🧠 Scene 5: The Psychology of Why This Works
Remote Access Scams work because scammers understand human behavior. They use:
1. Fear of loss
“If you don’t act now, your phone will be hacked.”
Fear triggers impulsive action—like downloading apps without thinking.
2. Trust in authority
“This is the Cybersecurity Division. We’re here to help.”
People are more obedient when instructions come from someone they believe has power.
3. Confusion and pressure
“We’re trying to help you, but we need you to cooperate.”
They bombard you with technical jargon so you’ll give up control.
🛡️ Scene 6: How to Defend Yourself
If you ever feel like you’re being tricked into giving up control, follow these safety rules:
✅ 1. Never install apps at a stranger’s request
Legitimate organizations will never ask you to install remote access software for security issues.
✅ 2. Hang up and call back
Always verify the caller by calling the company’s official hotline. Never trust the number shown on your screen—it can be spoofed.
✅ 3. Enable app install restrictions
On your phone, enable parental controls or app installation restrictions that require a password. This helps prevent accidental installs.
✅ 4. Watch your banking activity
Use your bank’s app to monitor activity and enable instant alerts. If you see anything suspicious, freeze your account immediately.
✅ 5. Remove remote access apps
If you’ve accidentally installed AnyDesk or similar apps, delete them immediately. Then do a full phone scan or visit your telco’s service center.
📞 Scene 7: If You’re Already a Victim, Here’s What To Do
Act fast. Every second counts.
1. Turn off your mobile data or WiFi
o This cuts the scammer’s connection instantly.
2. Switch your phone to airplane mode
o Prevents further remote control.
3. Uninstall the suspicious app
o Remove AnyDesk, TeamViewer, etc.
4. Change all passwords
o Banking, email, social media—everything.
5. Report the scam
o Contact your bank
o Lodge a report with the police
o Call your country’s anti-scam hotline
In Singapore: Call 1800-722-6688 (Anti-Scam Helpline)
👨👩👧👦 Scene 8: Spread the Word
Remote access scams target everyone—but especially:
- Seniors
- New immigrants
- Less tech-savvy users
- People who trust authority easily
If you have parents, relatives, or friends who may not understand how remote access works, teach them this one simple rule:
“No government officer, police officer, or telco staff will ever ask to control your phone.”
If they hear that request—it’s a scam. Every time. No exception.
❤️ Final Scene: Mr. Tan’s Message to You
When we interviewed Mr. Tan months later, he said something that stuck with us:
“I trusted them because they sounded helpful. But now, I double-check everything—even if it seems urgent.”
He’s right.
In today’s scam-driven world, urgency is the enemy of safety.
Take a moment. Pause. Verify. And when in doubt?
Hang up.
Let’s help our loved ones stay safe—one lesson, one conversation at a time.
