To give remote access to laptop.

[hugebigburd]

I'm trying to update my Garmin sat nav and having difficulty. I phoned the helpline and he said he needs remote access to my computer to be able to help. I thought he may have been able to talk me through. Is this safe?

Happens all the time and as long as it is the genuine helpline number of a reputable company, then it's fine and normal.

Er... happens all the time? I don't think so! I would very cautious OP. In fact, I wouldn't do it. Why does he need remote access?

@TwitterQueen1

How often do you require tech support in your day to day life?

I run my business and have a lot to maintain, but never studied anything to do with computers so I often need tech support with hardware, website etc. And remote access is a very normal occurrence. They sort the problem and off they go. Never had my identity stolen, information leaked, documents accessed or any kind if fraud or anything.

It is a normal thing in tech support.

I run a service desk, the majority of support involves a remote connection.
You will have complete control if you wish to terminate the session at any time but there's really nothing to worry about if you called the advised helpline.
The only time you should be wary is if someone has called you out of the blue.

You are giving them access to your computer but you would typically be able to see what they are doing and there would be a disconnect button to kick them out. Once they are gone you would still need to press approve to let them in a second time.

Thank you so much for your help and replies. I was just a bit unsettled and caught off guard. Their telephone numbers do check out and I did phone them. Thanks again.