The Moment You Share Your Screen… Your Crypto Is Gone.
Remote screen-sharing tools were built to make collaboration easier. Unfortunately, scammers have weaponized them into one of the most invasive fraud methods in the crypto world. Screen-sharing scams trick victims into granting direct access to their wallets or exchange accounts under the guise of “help,” enabling criminals to siphon funds within minutes.
How the Scam Works
These scams usually start with a promise of guidance — “We’ll help you invest,” “Let me show you how to transfer safely,” or “Join my live session to learn trading.” Victims are encouraged to install legitimate tools like AnyDesk, Zoom, or TeamViewer.
Once the session begins, scammers request permission to view or even control the victim’s screen. They guide them step by step through “investments,” often into fraudulent platforms. In reality, they’re watching private keys, wallet addresses, or seed phrases being entered. In some cases, scammers manipulate victims into copying wallet numbers or “approving” smart contracts that drain their funds.
Unlike phishing websites that depend on victims making errors, screen-sharing scams give criminals direct, real-time access to the victim’s actions — making them highly dangerous.
Real Cases from Practice
StarCompliance has investigated cases where victims lost six-figure sums in a single session. In one, a victim thought they were being mentored in low-risk trading strategies. Following the scammer’s instructions, they approved a transaction in MetaMask — unknowingly granting full spending rights to the attacker. Within minutes, over $177,000 in USDT vanished.
Another case involved a so-called “crypto tutor” who persuaded victims to share screens while setting up wallets. By observing the 12-word seed phrase, the scammer recreated the wallet on their own device and drained funds as soon as deposits were made.
Consequences for Victims
The speed of loss is devastating. Victims often see their funds disappear live during the call, powerless to stop it. The betrayal cuts deeply, because these scams depend on trust and personal interaction. Financially, the impact can be life-altering; emotionally, victims often feel exposed and foolish, intensifying the shame around reporting.
How StarCompliance Works with These Cases
When investigating screen-sharing scams, StarCompliance conducts forensic analysis of the victim’s transactions. By reviewing token approvals, wallet interactions, and smart contract calls, investigators can pinpoint how access was granted and trace where the funds flowed.
Reports are compiled with technical clarity, documenting not only the theft, but also the methodology used — vital for regulators and exchanges to recognize similar patterns in future. This transparency helps victims reclaim agency and contributes to broader fraud prevention efforts.
CEO's Afterword
“Screen-sharing should teach — not take. One shared screen can cost a lifetime of savings if you trust the wrong mentor.”
— Taras Podgorodetskyi, CEO, StarCompliance
Conclusion
Never share your screen or seed phrase with anyone claiming to “help with crypto.” If you’ve already fallen victim to such manipulation, immediate action is critical.
Contact StarCompliance.io for blockchain forensic support and evidence gathering. #BTCVSGOLD #BinanceBlockchainWeek
