Summary
The new Windows XP Remote Assistance feature has the potential to revolutionize the technical support industry. The program is intuitive and powerful. However, with this increase in power there is a corresponding need for an increase in security. By educating users to configure the Novice computer to accept only those requests that are permitted and to maintain control over Remote Control permissions, you can help users maintain data integrity. The trickiest part of Remote Assistance for end-users will be to avoid spoofing or social engineering attempts. A hacker could easily trick a Novice user into allowing a connection and could thus gain unauthorized access to a network. If you or your employees previously have fallen for cleverly worded e-mails carrying viruses, you may become prey for devious hackers sending false invitations. Educate yourself and your employees not to accept unsolicited invitations.