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Computer help via phone

10 years ago

Having a problem that I can't resolve with a program.

A friend has used a computer repair here in town that takes over your computer and trouble shoots the problem and resolves it. Saves $$$ versus taking it in or having them come here.

She was very comfortable letting them do this. She's had it done twice. I've heard of this, but never used this method. Has anyone else and is it safe?

Thanks

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Comments (8)

User
10 years ago
Many, many moons ago I allowed this method. I had a new desk top and it wasn't responding the way it should. I allowed the private builder to have access and he repaired the problem. Yes. It is safe if you know the reliability/honesty of the person you're allowing access to your system. It's often done by system builders [MS or HP] when nothing else will work. I've also allowed my ISP to repair damage they caused via this method when I first accessed the internet years ago.

Do I recommend it? Sure. As long as you feel comfortable with the person you're giving the access to. It alleviates a lot of hassle/problems of moving a system. If you have a personal recommendation...that's even better. You might have to give the person your password[s] to enter your system...and after the repair is completed...I've always changed passwords...whether I had to give them out or not. It's just a private precaution but one I strongly recommend it.
Elmer J Fudd
10 years ago
A remote session will probably involve downloading a software package like Team Viewer or something similar. Team Viewer is free and widely used - I have it to help out some of the older members of the family, from a distance.

At the receiving end, the password for entry can get changed with one click, thus preventing any future connections from outside the home.
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kudzu9
10 years ago
I've done it and it worked fine. However, I spent some time online checking out he reputation of the company I selected. If they are reputable, fine. If you don't vet them, you could end up handing over your computer contents to a scam artist.
aputernut
10 years ago
last modified: 10 years ago
It is called remote access and I have done remotes many times for other folks online, mostly from senior chat rooms. I usually open note pad and chat with the folks before I make any change in their PC, asking them what the problem is and getting answers helps. Also I have showed many how to navigate a new OS and have cleaned up the PC and downloaded free software they should have but do not, like Malewarebytes etc. ( I do this for Free ) only hoping to save folks money not take theirs. I myself would only do this with perhaps HP or PC mfg. not with anyone I do not know of by phone, or the many scammers who call us. I have helped some chatters by phone, only because there was no other option, and only someone in the USA where I have Free long distance.
User
10 years ago
I've help many people using this method too! Like SnidelyWhiplash, I too used a Third Party software to do it. I also used it to maintain our computers (small Network 6-8 computers) at work while I wasn't at work. Seems like they were always calling me at home and wanting me to fix something. It can be a great thing, just be careful of who your giving access to. Many of these programs require Permission each time the computer is accessed, not just a password!
Elmer J Fudd
10 years ago
last modified: 10 years ago
"I have helped some chatters by phone, only because there was no other option, and only someone in the USA"

With Skype or one of its competitors, whether on PCs or even on smartphones, it's free to talk to anyone anywhere in the world for as long as you want.

If you're unable to start a remote connection for whatever reason, a Skype video chat using a smartphone would allow you to even see what's on the user's screen.
chas045
10 years ago
I've used the method from earthlink (my email provider), HP for my newer computer, and with my local repairman whom I trust. I believe they all used 'LogMeIn'. I assume it is like TeamViewer. It works fine when the outfit knows what they are doing. Earthlink has helped and messed things up too. At least with 'LogMeIn' I generally reset it to 'inactive' after use.
Maggie200
10 years ago
Nice of you who help others for free.

I have used it with a Microsoft technician and was so grateful to watch him work. Much easier than writing back and forth and a good way to learn.

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