A scammer got into my Mac with AnyDesk: what to do now

Scammers often pretend to be Norton, McAfee, Apple, or Geek Squad, say you owe a renewal or have a virus, and ask you to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or a similar app so they can see your screen. Act calmly and in this order. Most people recover fully.

Free human help is at capacity right now. If you want help while you fix this, Ellis, our AI assistant, can help you by phone now. The first 5 minutes are free when you call (928) 272-0355. If you want more time, phone help is $19 one time for up to 30 minutes, used over 14 days. No subscription. Ellis is an AI and can make mistakes.

Call Ellis (928) 272-0355 $19 phone help, up to 30 minutes

Refundable anytime: just ask with a reason at joe@adorellc.pro or text 928-272-0355.

Steps

  1. Disconnect the Mac from the internet right away. Click the Wi-Fi icon at the top right of the screen and turn Wi-Fi off, or unplug the network cable. This ends any live session.
  2. Quit and delete the remote app. Open Finder, click Applications, find AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or any app you do not recognize, and drag it to the Trash. Then empty the Trash.
  3. Remove its permissions. Open the Apple menu, System Settings, Privacy and Security, then check Screen Recording, Accessibility, and Full Disk Access. Remove anything you do not recognize.
  4. If you gave a card number or bank login, or they had you open your bank site, call your bank or card company now using the number on the back of your card. Ask them to block the card and watch for transfers.
  5. Using a different device, such as your phone, change the passwords for your email, bank, and Apple Account. Change your email password first, because it can reset the others.
  6. Never call a phone number from a popup, email, or text that says it is Norton or Apple. Real companies do not ask you to install remote access apps to fix a renewal or refund.
  7. Keep notes of what happened, the phone number they used, and any amounts. Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov. If money was taken, this helps your bank dispute it.

Common questions

Can they still see my Mac after I delete AnyDesk?

Usually not. Once the app is deleted and its permissions are removed, they have no way back in. Restarting the Mac after cleanup is a good extra step.

Should I pay the refund they say I am owed?

No. A refund that needs you to send money, buy gift cards, or log in to your bank while they watch is always a scam. Hang up.

Free human help is at capacity right now. If you want help while you fix this, Ellis, our AI assistant, can help you by phone now. The first 5 minutes are free when you call (928) 272-0355. If you want more time, phone help is $19 one time for up to 30 minutes, used over 14 days. No subscription. Ellis is an AI and can make mistakes.

Call Ellis (928) 272-0355 $19 phone help, up to 30 minutes

Refundable anytime: just ask with a reason at joe@adorellc.pro or text 928-272-0355.

Ellis is an AI tech support assistant from 5 Star Consultants, a division of Adore LLC. Privacy Terms