ConnectWise (remote monitoring & management)
What it is:
A legitimate IT management/remote support platform used by MSPs (managed service providers) to manage client computers and servers.
How scammers abuse it (high level):
· Malicious actors sometimes try to trick victims into installing remote agents or granting remote sessions, then use that remote access to poke around devices.
How to protect yourself:
· Never install any ConnectWise (or other remote tool) because “random support” told you to on the phone/chat.
· Only allow remote access if you initiated contact with a known, trusted IT provider or company.
· Ask your company’s IT directly (via official channels) before accepting any remote connection.
AnyDesk (remote desktop tool)
What it is:
A very popular remote desktop tool for tech support, remote work, etc.
How it’s abused (high level):
· “Support” callers ask you to install AnyDesk so they can “fix your bank / phone / email issue.”
· Once in, they can see your screen, files, and sometimes access accounts.
Protection:
· Treat remote-access invites like handing someone your house keys.
· Close AnyDesk immediately if you see someone doing anything unexpected, and disconnect your internet.
TeamViewer (remote support & access)
What it is:
Legit remote access software widely used by IT departments and businesses.
Scammer abuse:
· Same pattern as AnyDesk: fake tech support, fake refunds, bank “verification”.
· They may ask you to log into your online banking while they watch.
Protection:
· Remote tools should only be used with known companies (your employer’s IT, a signed support contract).
· Don’t type passwords or open banking while someone is remotely connected unless it’s your official corporate helpdesk.
4. PayPal (online payments)
What it is:
A trusted payment platform for online buying/selling.
How scammers exploit it:
· Fake “PayPal” emails or SMS (phishing) asking you to “verify” your account on a fake site.
· Overpayment & refund scams where they claim to have “accidentally” sent extra money.
Protection:
· Never click payment links in unexpected emails/SMS. Type paypal.com yourself in the browser.
· Verify any unusual transaction directly in the official app/site, not via links.
Cash apps (Zelle, Cash App, Venmo, etc.)
What they are:
Legit instant transfer services used by millions.
Scammer abuse:
· “I’ll pay you more, send some back” style scams.
· Fake “job” offers that require you to move money or buy gift cards with money they send (money mule risk).
Protection:
· Treat instant transfers like cash: no chargebacks, no real buyer protection.
· Be very wary of strangers asking you to move money for them in any way.
Cryptocurrency exchanges & wallets
What they are:
Real platforms for buying/storing crypto (Bitcoin, etc.).
Scammer abuse:
· Fake “investment managers” telling you to open an account and send crypto to “grow” your money.
· Romance or social media scams that gradually push you into depositing to some “trading site”.
Protection:
· Legit investments never require you to send crypto to a stranger’s wallet.
· If someone you met online asks for crypto “just this once”, that’s a red flag the size of a planet.
Encrypted messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, etc.)
What they are:
Secure communication tools widely used for privacy and everyday chat.
Scammer abuse:
· Move conversations off a public platform (“Let’s talk on Telegram/WhatsApp”) to avoid moderation and reporting.
· Run fake investment/forex/crypto groups with staged screenshots and fake testimonials.
Protection:
· Be cautious when someone insists on moving from a marketplace or dating app to a private encrypted app quickly.
· Don’t trust screenshots of “profits” or group chats hyping a “sure win investment”.
Virtual phone numbers & VoIP services (TextNow, Google Voice, etc.)
What they are:
Legit services for secondary numbers, business lines, or privacy.
Scammer abuse:
· Use disposable or international numbers to impersonate banks, delivery companies, “government agencies,” etc.
· Frequently change numbers to avoid being blocked.
Protection:
· Be skeptical of unknown numbers demanding urgent action or payments.
· If they claim to be a bank / government, hang up, then call the official number from their website.
Email marketing & bulk messaging services
What they are:
Tools (Mailchimp-style or SMS gateways) that legitimate businesses use to send newsletters and notifications.
Scammer abuse:
· Sending mass phishing emails that look polished and professional.
· Fake login pages for banks, cloud services, or social media.
Protection:
· Always check the sender’s actual email domain, not just the display name.
· If an email asks you to log in or pay, go directly to the official website/app instead of clicking the email button.
Deepfake / AI voice & image tools
What they are:
AI tools that can clone voices, generate images, or edit videos—used legitimately for content creation, localization, etc.
Scammer abuse:
· Voice cloning to pretend to be a family member or boss asking for “urgent money.”
· Fake identity documents or photos to back stories.
Protection:
· For money or sensitive requests, always verify on a separate channel (e.g., call the known number, video call, or meet in person).
· Have “family passwords” or agreed code phrases for emergencies.
Quick Red-Flag
No matter what tool is involved, be suspicious if:
· Someone rushes you (“Do this now or you’ll be arrested / your account will be closed!”).
· They ask you to keep it secret from friends, family, or your bank.
· They ask you to install remote software or send screenshots of one-time codes.
· Payment is requested via gift cards, crypto, or instant transfers to strangers.