Yes, this is safe -- as long as you’re dealing with a trusted company, such as a major computer manufacturer or software company like Microsoft, Dell, HP, Acer, Toshiba, Sony, Samsung, Lenovo, ASUS, Apple and so on.

This is often referred to as “remote support” because it lets a technician log in to your computer from where they’re sitting (perhaps in another part of the country or even outside of the country) and take control of your computer mouse as though they were sitting next to you at home.

Often you’ll first need to download a small program that lets the tech support rep log in to your computer, and you’ll have to click to accept the invitation. Most technicians like to keep you on the phone to explain what they’re doing as you sit back and take notice (or, better yet, take notes).

Why is remote tech support so popular? Because the technical expert on the other end of the line can often find and fix the problem you’re experiencing a lot faster than telling you how to fix it yourself. Walking you through the steps could take a long time -- especially if you’re not very tech-savvy -- and add even more stress to the already frustrating issue you’re experiencing.