computer security risk?

My mother in law has just had her new laptop installed with sky broadband she had a guy help her from work to install and get her set up. He has also setup a system where by he can log on at the same time as she is online if she has any problems. She is wondering if he can log on to her banking details when she is line or will they be secure?

Thanks

Tara

 

Theoretically yes, but it depends on how much of her system he has access to. Some programs which allow remote logging has to have the user approval before he can have complete rights to her system. If she has passwords stored on her computer or automatic login to her credit or bank card sites, I would advise her to turn them off, That way if someone compromises her computer they won't have automatic access to her accounts. Keep the passwords in a safe place (not a file on the computer).
If you use a tech support service that uses remote access to assist you in repairs ask them what type of program they are using, get the name of the program and research it yourself, disable automatic remote login and only enable it when you are ready to use it. Some companies tell you to disable certain programs before they connect to your computer just as a liability protection for themselves so their customers can't come back and allege their bank account have been compromised.
Sorry I went around the world with an answer that that could have been yes or no, but these days of computer breaches sometimes yes and no are more gray instead of just black and white...

 

This is of no real help, but if she doesn't trust the guy that helped, what the heck was he doing in her house?

(these days it is VERY difficult to be 100% secure from everyone and everything; if someone is motivated enough and has the time, tools, and knowledge, they can pretty much hack into anything)

 

thanks for your help, I will let her know.