Remote Access Scams

Remote access scams are a form of social engineering fraud where criminals trick individuals into granting access to their computer, smartphone or tablet. Fraudsters typically impersonate trusted organisations such as technology providers, financial institutions, government agencies or investment platforms, claiming there is an issue that requires immediate attention. Once access is granted, scammers may be able to observe account activity, obtain sensitive information, influence transactions or convince victims to transfer cryptocurrency or other assets. Because the victim willingly provides access, these scams can be highly effective and difficult to detect until financial losses have occurred. As digital assets and online financial services become more widely used, fraudsters are increasingly leveraging remote access tools to target investors and account holders, often using urgency and impersonation tactics to bypass normal verification processes.

How the scam works:

Unexpected contact
Fraudsters contact victims by phone, email, text message, social media or pop-up warning messages, often claiming there is an urgent issue with an account, device or financial transaction.
Impersonation of a trusted entity
Scammers pose as technology support providers, financial institutions, government agencies, investment platforms or other trusted organisations to establish credibility.
Request to install remote access software
Victims are instructed to download software that allows fraudsters to remotely view or control their device under the guise of providing assistance or resolving a problem.
Account review or security check
Once connected, fraudsters may ask victims to log in to banking, investment or cryptocurrency platforms while they observe or guide the process.
Pressure to take action
Victims are often encouraged to act quickly to prevent an alleged security threat, account restriction or financial loss, reducing the opportunity for independent verification.
Asset theft or account compromise
The fraudster may use the access granted to obtain sensitive information, influence transactions or persuade the victim to transfer assets to fraudulent accounts.
Protect access to your devices
Only install software from trusted and verified sources. Be cautious when granting remote access permissions to anyone.
Review requests independently
Confirm the identity of the caller, sender or organisation before providing information or following instructions.
Report suspicious activity
Immediately report suspected fraud to your Relationship Manager, financial institution and relevant authorities.

Common warning signs:

Unsolicited contact
Unexpected calls, messages or pop-ups claiming there is a problem with your account, device or assets.

Requests to install software
Instructions to click on links, download remote access applications or screen-sharing tools from an unfamiliar source.

Pressure to remain on a call
A request to stay connected while logging in to financial, banking or cryptocurrency accounts.

Requests for sensitive information
Demands for passwords, authentication codes, private keys, wallet seed phrases or other confidential information.

Urgency and fear tactics
Claims that immediate action is required to prevent account suspension, financial loss or security breaches.

Unusual payment instructions
Instructions to move funds to a different account, wallet or platform for ‘verification’, ‘protection’ or ‘security’ purposes.

Discouragement from independent verification
Attempts to prevent you from contacting your financial institution, Relationship Manager or trusted contact for confirmation.

What you should do

Verify communications referencing AMINA
Any legitimate communication from AMINA will come from an ‘@aminagroup.com’ email address or an official AMINA subdomain (e.g., communication.aminagroup.com). If you receive any message referencing AMINA that appears unusual, unexpected or requests urgent action, always verify it directly with your Relationship Manager before proceeding.
Contact your Relationship Manager
If a communication references your AMINA account, assets, or security, contact your Relationship Manager directly to verify its legitimacy.
Pause before acting
Take time to assess the request carefully. Urgency is a common tactic used to influence decision-making. Never click on any links that you are not able to verify in advance as being safe.

What you should NOT do

Do not grant remote access to unknown individuals
Never allow someone to remotely control your device unless you have independently verified their identity and purpose.
Do not act on unverified instructions
Avoid clicking on unverified links, transferring assets, approving transactions, or providing information without independent confirmation.
Do not share sensitive information
Never disclose passwords, one-time passcodes, authentication codes, private keys or wallet seed phrases.
Do not assume a caller is genuine
A professional tone, familiar branding, or apparent knowledge of your circumstances does not guarantee legitimacy.
Do not let urgency override verification
Fraudsters frequently create pressure to act immediately. Pause, think and verify before taking any action.
Do not ignore warning signs
If something feels unusual, inconsistent or unexpected, stop the interaction and seek independent verification through a trusted channel.

Remember

Legitimate organisations will always allow time for verification. If a communication involving your assets, account, or security appears unusual, pause, verify and contact your Relationship Manager before taking any action.

Stay vigilant and stay safe with AMINA.

_{This article has been prepared by AMINA Bank AG (“AMINA”) in Switzerland. AMINA is a Swiss licensed bank and securities dealer with its head office and legal domicile in Switzerland. It is authorized and regulated by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (“FINMA”). This document is published solely for educational purposes; it is not an advertisement nor a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any financial investment or to participate in any particular investment strategy. This article is for publication only as permitted by applicable law. It is not directed to, or intended for distribution to or use by, any person or entity who is a citizen or resident of or located in any locality, state, country or other jurisdiction where such distribution, publication, availability or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject AMINA to any registration or licensing requirement within such jurisdiction. No representation or warranty, either express or implied, is provided in relation to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the information contained in this document, except with respect to information concerning AMINA. The information is intended as general information. AMINA does not undertake to update or keep current this information. This article may not be reproduced, or copies circulated without prior authority of AMINA. AMINA accepts no liability whatsoever for any claims or lawsuits from any third parties arising from the use or distribution of this article.}