Over the last couple of years, thanks to increasing broadband connections and cost cutting, we have seen a popular rise in remote computer repair. But just how safe is remote computer repair and should you allow a stranger to remote control you PC with access to your personal files?
For many people, their PC contains important files, photos and documents close to their heart. Some of these files may also contain social security details, passwords and other sensitive data. With that in mind, remote computer repair may seem risky to newcomers. In this brief guide we will explore just how safe remote computer repair is and what is the best practice?
Home Remote Computer Repair Basics
Remote Computer Repair is just as safe as normal computer repair. In fact it can be considered even safer because you don’t need to carry your machine to a repair store or have a stranger come and visit you. However, you should remember that the remote engineer will be able to access all of your files and documents. However, this would be the same if you had an actual physical repair. A tip is to perhaps tidy up your desktop and folders before receiving the remote control access. If there are any important files that you wouldn’t want someone reading, then why not password-protect them or temporary place them onto a removable storage device?
The great thing about remote repair is that you can see exactly what the repair technician is doing live. You can follow every mouse click or folder access in real time. The biggest issue in terms of remote computer repair from home is the access itself.
You should always ensure you know who is behind every remote session? For example, if you are speaking to technical support on the phone, you can be pretty sure that the engineer is the person requesting access but always double check their name. Another important issue to remember is to close your remote connection after your repair is complete. Your computer repair technician will normally do this for you, however sometime they may forget. If you can still see their remote assistant box anyway on your desktop afterwards then you can always click this and select the option to end the remote session. A computer reboot is also a great alternative if you are still feeling paranoid.
Remote Computer Repair for your business
Today, hundreds of thousands of companies are using the benefits of remote computer repair to resolve their IT issues. Remote computer repair is the fastest form of technical assistance available and can save you thousands costs associated with expensive IT technician visits. However your business should take precautions when using remote computer repair within your organization. Below are two important points to consider with remote computer repair for business:
- Security & Sensitivity – If you are using your own internal IT support help desk, then you should ensure that the correct privileges are given. Remember that your IT department may be able to see sensitive CEO level documents or other important data while remote repairing.
- Asset Management – if your organization has lots of computer users, then an efficient asset management system is important. Ensure each computer terminal has its own asset number which is programmed into the remote system and that your end users know how to identify these numbers.
We hope this guide has presented some useful information on remote computer repair safety. For the most part, repair via remote control is perfectly safe. However, you should always stay vigilant to ensure only genuine remote sessions are in process and if any doubt always reboot your PC.
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