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{{short description|Remote administration and web conferencing software}}
{{use mdy dates|date=February 2021}}
{{Infobox software
{{Infobox software
|name = TeamViewer
| name = TeamViewer
|logo = TeamViewer logo.svg
| logo = TeamViewer logo.svg
|logo size = 200px
| logo size = 200px
|screenshot = TeamViewer (screenshot).png
| screenshot = Teamviewer main screen win.png
|caption = Teamviewer 14.1 on [[Windows 7]]
| caption = Teamviewer 11 on [[Windows 10]]
|developer = [[TeamViewer AG]], [[Germany]]
| developer = TeamViewer AG, [[Germany]]
|ver layout = stacked
| ver layout = stacked
|latest release date = {{start date and age|2021|01|28}}
| latest release date = {{Start date and age|2011|06|01}}
| operating system = [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[iOS]], [[Linux]], [[macOS]], [[Microsoft Windows]], [[Windows RT]]
|operating system = [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], [[macOS]], [[Linux]], [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[iOS]]/[[iPadOS]], [[Raspberry Pi]]<ref name="Release Notes">{{Citation|language=de|url=https://community.teamviewer.com/German/categories/release-notes-de|title=Release Notes|website=Knowledge Base / TeamViewer Community|access-date=2021-02-04}}</ref>
|genre = [[Remote administration]], [[Web conferencing]]
| genre = [[Remote administration]], [[Web conferencing]]
|license = [[proprietary software]]
| license = [[Proprietary software]]
|website = {{URL|https://www.teamviewer.com/}}
| website = {{URL|https://www.teamviewer.com/}}
}}
}}


'''TeamViewer''' is a [[proprietary software|proprietary]] software application for [[Remote administration|remote control]], [[desktop sharing]], online meetings, [[web conferencing]] and [[file transfer]] between computers.<ref>{{cite web | title=TeamViewer (Remote Support) | website=University of New England (UNE) | date=2013-11-01 | url=https://www.une.edu.au/current-students/support/it-services/teamviewer-remote-support | access-date=2018-03-23}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|author=Carl D. Rinker|title=Advanced Home Server - Making the Complicated Easier|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WndgBwAAQBAJ&pg=PA279|date=16 March 2015|publisher=Carl D. Rinker|pages=279–|id=GGKEY:QQADF012Z6P}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=TeamViewer | website=PCMAG | date=2017-09-07 | url=https://www.pcmag.com/review/355478/teamviewer | access-date=2018-03-23}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=TeamViewer Releases Major Spring Feature Update | website=Business Wire | date=2018-03-20 | url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180320005014/en/TeamViewer-Releases-Major-Spring-Feature-Update | access-date=2018-03-23}}</ref>
'''TeamViewer''' is a [[proprietary software]] for [[Remote administration|remote access]] to as well as remote control and maintenance of computers and other devices,<ref>{{Citation|language=de|title=Wie geht das? TeamViewer ermöglicht Hilfe aus der Ferne.|newspaper=Berliner Zeitung|date=2007-12-29}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WndgBwAAQBAJ&pg=PA279|title=Advanced Home Server – Making the Complicated Easier|author=Carl D. Rinker|page=279|website=Google Books}}</ref> which was first released in 2005.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Michael Mierke|url=https://www.heise.de/tipps-tricks/Was-ist-TeamViewer-4507319.html|title=Was ist TeamViewer? Tipps & Tricks|website=Heise Online|date=2019-08-27|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> The functionality has been expanded step by step, most recently for example through the integration of TeamViewer Meeting.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|url=https://www.heise.de/news/Ende-zu-Ende-verschluesselte-Videokonferenzen-TeamViewer-Meeting-nun-kostenlos-5025771.html|title=Ende-zu-Ende-verschlüsselte Videokonferenzen: TeamViewer Meeting nun kostenlos|author=Eva-Maria Weiß|website=Heise Online|date=2021-01-15|access-date=2021-02-05}}</ref> TeamViewer does not require registration and is free of charge for non-commercial use, which has helped the software to become very popular.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Jens Tönnesmann|title=Die Weltvernetzer|url=https://www.zeit.de/2016/51/teamviewer-computer-vernetzung-fernsteuerung-goeppingen-digitale-champions|access-date=2021-02-04|newspaper=Die Zeit|date=2016-12-08|page=34}}</ref> It has been installed on more than two billion devices.<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://www.g2.com/products/teamviewer/reviews|title=TeamViewer Reviews & Product Details|website=G2|access-date=2021-02-25}}</ref> TeamViewer is the core product of the [[Göppingen]]-based company of the same name.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Robert Landgraf|url=https://www.handelsblatt.com/finanzen/maerkte/boerse-inside/reifepruefung-boersengang-so-gross-ist-der-anteil-des-firmenchefs-oliver-steil-am-erfolg-von-teamviewer/25013434.html|title=Reifeprüfung Börsengang|website=Handelsblatt|date=2019-09-13|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|language=de|url=https://www.handelsblatt.com/unternehmen/it-medien/softwarefirma-teamviewer-das-einhorn-von-goeppingen/19214494.html|title=Das Einhorn von Göppingen|website=Handelsblatt|date=2017-01-07|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> Companies that use the software include [[Siemens Healthineers]], for example.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|title=Siemens Healthineers nutzt TeamViewer weltweit.|website=Tecnomedicina|access-date=2021-02-05|date=2021-02-04|url=https://www.tecnomedicina.it/siemens-healthineers-utilizza-teamviewer-a-livello-globale/}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://www.nasdaq.com/press-release/teamviewer-supports-medical-technology-providers-digitalizing-the-healthcare-sector|title=Teamviewer Supports Medical Technology Providers Digitalizing the Healthcare Sector – Siemens Healthineers Already Uses TeamViewer Globally|publisher=Nasdaq|access-date=2021-02-17|date=2021-02-03}}</ref>

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== Features ==
TeamViewer is available for [[Microsoft Windows]], [[macOS]],<ref>[http://www.macworld.com/article/138757/2009/02/teamviewer.html TeamViewer V4desktop collaboration app now Mac-compatible] Philip Michaels, Macworld</ref><ref>[http://download.cnet.com/8301-2007_4-10252301-12.html Article comparing screen-sharing software], Seth Rosenblatt, Cnet download blog</ref> [[Linux]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.teamviewer.com/index.php?_m=knowledgebase&group=news&_a=viewarticle&kbarticleid=203 |title=TeamViewer 5 for Linux released |publisher=Support.teamviewer.com |date=2010-04-15 |access-date=2010-11-24}}</ref> [[Chrome OS]],<ref>{{Cite web|title = TeamViewer for Chromebooks - Work Better On-the-go|url = https://blog.teamviewer.com/teamviewer-for-chromebooks/|website = TeamViewer Blog|access-date = 2016-01-13}}</ref> [[iOS]],<ref>[http://www.cmswire.com/cms/enterprise-20/teamviewer-ipad-app-provides-remote-access-to-pcs-008052.php TeamViewer iPad App Provides Remote Access to PCs] David Roe, CMSWire</ref> [[Android (operating system)|Android]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.teamviewer.com/index.php?_m=knowledgebase&_a=viewarticle&kbarticleid=254|title=App (Beta) for Android released|date=2010-11-24|publisher=TeamViewer|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101210021115/http://support.teamviewer.com:80/index.php?_m=knowledgebase&group=news&_a=viewarticle&kbarticleid=254|archive-date=2010-12-10|access-date=2010-11-25}}</ref> and [[Windows RT]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.teamviewer.com/en/press/20121029.aspx |title= TeamViewer Touch App for Windows 8 released |publisher= Teamviewer |date=2012-10-29 | access-date=2012-12-10}}</ref> [[operating system]]s. It is also possible to access a machine running TeamViewer with a [[web browser]].<ref>{{Citation | url = http://www.cmswire.com/cms/enterprise-20/teamviewer-adds-instant-messaging-to-online-collaboration-solution-004498.php | type = article | title = Teamviewer 4.1 | first = Geoff | last = Spick | publisher = CMS Wire | chapter = Join the crowd}}.</ref> While the main focus of the application is remote control of computers, collaboration and presentation features are included.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.downloadsquad.com/2009/04/29/teamviewer-improves-speed-messaging-presentation-in-v4-1/|archive-url=https://archive.is/20120731012755/http://www.downloadsquad.com/2009/04/29/teamviewer-improves-speed-messaging-presentation-in-v4-1/|url-status=dead|archive-date=31 July 2012|title=Engadget|work=Engadget|access-date=3 May 2016}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
The software is distributed by the German company TeamViewer AG, which was founded in [[Göppingen]], [[Germany]] in 2005. As of 2018, TeamViewer has local representations in Australia and the United States.
Rossmanith GmbH released the first version of TeamViewer software in 2005, at that time still based on the VNC project.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|url=http://www.teamviewer.com/company/|title=About TeamViewer|publisher=Rossmanith GmbH|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050419215701/http://www.teamviewer.com/company/|archive-date=2005-04-19|access-date=2020-02-04|url-status=dead}}</ref> The [[Information technology|IT]] [[service provider]] wanted to avoid unnecessary trips to customers and perform tasks such as installing software remotely.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Larissa Holzki, Christof Kerkmann, Effy Zhang|url=https://www.handelsblatt.com/unternehmen/management/hoffnungstraeger/serie-hoffnungstraeger-per-mausklick-in-die-firma-wie-teamviewer-chef-oliver-steil-von-der-krise-profitiert-hat/25888114.html|title=Per Mausklick in die Firma|newspaper=Handelsblatt|date=2020-06-05|access-date=2020-02-04|page=27}}</ref> The development was very successful and gave rise to TeamViewer GmbH, which today operates as TeamViewer Germany GmbH and is part of [[TeamViewer AG]].<ref>{{Citation|language=de|url=https://www.unternehmensregister.de/|title=Unternehmensregister|publisher=Bundesanzeiger Verlag|access-date=2021-02-04}}</ref>


Two outside investments were placed in TeamViewer since 2010. The [[Durham, North Carolina]]-based company GFI Software acquired a majority stake in TeamViewer in 2010. The London-based private equity firm [[Permira]] took over GFI's stake in TeamViewer in 2014.<ref>{{cite web | url= http://www.permira.com/site/news/4288.pdf | title= Permira funds to acquire leading software firm TeamViewer from GFI Software | format= [[PDF]] | publisher= Permira | access-date= 2015-07-02 | url-status= dead | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140521125930/http://www.permira.com/site/news/4288.pdf | archive-date= 2014-05-21 }}</ref>
== Operating systems ==
TeamViewer is available for all desktop computers with common operating systems,<ref name="Betriebssysteme">{{Citation|language=en|url=https://community.teamviewer.com/English/kb/articles/24141-supported-operating-systems|title=Supported Operating Systems|website=Knowledge Base / TeamViewer Community|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> including [[Microsoft Windows]] and [[Windows Server]], as well as Apple's [[macOS]].<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://www.macworld.com/article/1138757/teamviewer.html|title=TeamViewer v4 Desktop Collaboration App Now Mac-Compatible|website=Macworld|date=2009-02-10|access-date=2021-02-15|author=Philip Michaels}}</ref> There are also packages for several [[Linux]] distributions and derivatives, for example, [[Debian]]<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://vitux.com/how-to-install-teamviewer-on-debian-10/|title=How to Install TeamViewer on Debian 10|website=Vitux Linux Compendium|access-date=2021-02-10}}</ref>, [[Ubuntu]]<ref>{{Citation|language=en|title=How to Install TeamViewer on Ubuntu 20.04|url=https://linuxize.com/post/how-to-install-teamviewer-on-ubuntu-20-04/|website=Linuxize|access-date=2021-02-16|date=2020-06-27}}</ref>, [[Red Hat]]<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://access.redhat.com/discussions/3539921|title=TeamViewer for RHEL 7.5 server|publisher=Red Hat|website=Customer Portal|access-date=2021-02-09}}</ref>, and [[Fedora (operating system)|Fedora Linux]].<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://computingforgeeks.com/how-to-install-teamviewer-on-fedora/|title=How To Install TeamViewer on Fedora 32/31/30/29|website=Computing for Geeks|author=Josphat Mutai|date=2020-04-17|access-date=2021-02-05}}</ref> Besides, there is [[Raspberry Pi OS]], a Debian variant for the [[Raspberry Pi]].<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Oliver Nickel|url=https://www.golem.de/news/remote-desktop-teamviewer-kommt-fuer-iot-geraete-wie-den-raspberry-pi-1801-132291.html|title=Remote Desktop: TeamViewer kommt für IoT-Geräte wie den Raspberry Pi.|website=Golem|date=2018-01-22|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>


In 2020, TeamViewer software has seen significant extra demand caused by the COVID-19 lockdown and the shift of millions of people to remote work.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Seeing extra demand and orders amid coronavirus lockdowns, TeamViewer CEO says|url=https://www.cnbc.com/video/2020/04/24/seeing-extra-demand-amid-coronavirus-lockdowns-teamviewer-ceo-says.html|date=2020-04-24|website=CNBC|language=en|access-date=2020-05-12}}</ref>
TeamViewer is also available for [[Smartphone|smartphones]] and [[Tablet computer|tablets]] running [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[IOS|Apple's iOS]]/[[iPadOS]] operating system.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Franz Công Bùi|title=TeamViewer-App ermöglicht Zugriff auf Computer aus der Ferne.|newspaper=Börsen-Zeitung|date=2012-08-01|page=19}}</ref> Support for [[Windows Phone]] and [[Windows Mobile]] has been phased out after Microsoft discontinued support for the two operating systems.<ref>{{Citation|url=https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/teamviewer-quicksupport/9nblggh5kpgl?activetab=pivot:overviewtab|title=TeamViewer QuickSupport|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=2021-02-16|language=en}}</ref>


In July 2020, Teamviewer agreed to acquire augmented reality firm Ubimax to expand its [[Augmented reality|Augmented Reality]] (AR) and [[Internet of things|Internet of Things]] (IoT) offering.<ref>{{Cite news|author=Reuters Staff|date=2020-07-15|title=Teamviewer buy augmented reality firm Ubimax|language=en|work=Reuters|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-ubimax-m-a-teamviewer-idUSKCN24G1MF|access-date=2020-09-16}}</ref>
== Functionality ==
The functionality of TeamViewer differs depending on the device and variant or [[Software versioning|version]] of the software. The core of TeamViewer is remote access to computers and other endpoints as well as their control and maintenance.<ref>{{Citation|language=en|publisher=University of Münster|title=TeamViewer|url=https://www.uni-muenster.de/IT/en/services/arbeitsplatz/software/teamviewer.html|access-date=2021-02-17}}</ref> After the connection is established, the remote screen is visible to the user at the other endpoint. Both endpoints can send and receive files as well as access a shared [[clipboard]], for example.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Georg Drabner|title=Hilfe aus der Ferne|newspaper=Saarbrücker Zeitung|date=2009-04-24}}</ref> Besides, some functions facilitate team [[Collaborative software|collaboration]], such as audio and video transmissions via [[Voice over IP|IP telephony]].<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Reiko Kaps|url=https://www.heise.de/newsticker/meldung/Desktop-Fernhilfe-mit-Video-Telefonie-875739.html|title=Desktop-Fernhilfe mit Video-Telefonie|website=Heise Online|date=2009-12-03|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>


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== Abuses ==
In recent years, the functionality of the software has been optimized in particular for use in large companies.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|url=https://www.golem.de/news/teamviewer-8-fernwartungssoftware-mit-neuen-funktionen-fuer-unternehmen-1212-96120.html|title=TeamViewer 8: Fernwartungssoftware mit neuen Funktionen für Unternehmen|website=Golem|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> For this purpose, the enterprise variant TeamViewer Tensor was developed.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Thomas Bär, Frank-Michael Schlede|url=https://www.admin-magazin.de/Das-Heft/2019/04/TeamViewer-Tensor|title=TeamViewer Tensor: Fernwartung für die Großen|newspaper=Admin Magazin|issue=4|date=2019|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> With TeamViewer Pilot<ref>{{Citation|language=de|url=https://www.digitalbusiness-cloud.de/teamviewer-pilot-fernsupport-mithilfe-von-augmented-reality/|title=TeamViewer Pilot: Fernsupport mithilfe von Augmented Reality|publisher=Digital Business Cloud|date=2019-08-26|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>, TeamViewer sells software for remote support with [[augmented reality]] elements.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Oliver Nickel|url=https://www.golem.de/news/fernwartung-teamviewer-14-zeigt-informationen-mit-augmented-reality-1810-137294.html|title=TeamViewer 14 zeigt Informationen mit Augmented Reality|website=Golem|date=2018-10-24|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> TeamViewer offers interfaces to other applications and services, for example from [[Microsoft Teams|Microsoft (Teams)]]<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/microsoft-to-integrate-teamviewer-in-microsoft-teams/article32510765.ece|title=Microsoft to integrate TeamViewer in Microsoft Teams|date=2020-09-03|access-date=2021-02-15|website=The Hindu Business Line|publication-place=Mumbai}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|language=en|title=TeamViewer Integrates with Microsoft Teams|url=https://www.enterpriseitworld.com/teamviewer-integrates-with-microsoft-teams/|date=2020-09-02|access-date=2021-02-09|website=Enterprise IT World}}</ref>, [[Salesforce]]<ref>{{Citation|language=en|publisher=Salesforce|website=AppExchange|title=TeamViewer – Remote Support and Access Integration for Salesforce|url=https://appexchange.salesforce.com/listingDetail?listingId=a0N3A00000EFmSYUA1|access-date=2021-02-16}}</ref>, and [[ServiceNow]].<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://aithority.com/it-and-devops/new-features-added-to-teamviewer-integration-with-servicenow/|website=AiThority|date=2020-07-02|access-date=2021-02-15|title=New Features Added to TeamViewer Integration with ServiceNow}}</ref> The solution is available in nearly all countries and supports over 30 [[Language|languages]].<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://www.softwareadvice.com/video-conferencing/teamviewer-profile/|title=TeamViewer Software|website=Software Advice|access-date=2021-02-11}}</ref>
=== Remote service scams using TeamViewer ===
TeamViewer and similar services have been used to commit [[technical support scam]]s via telephone calls. People are called, either at random or from a list, by criminals claiming to represent a computer support service that has identified the victim's computer as being infected by [[malware]]. Most often, the criminals pretend as if they represent well known software companies. They then ask the victim to give them access to their computer by installing a remote control service, which can allow the attacker to take over the computer in real time and infect the computer with [[malware]] or to delete or copy personal files or to pretend to have removed malware for which they charge a fee. A ''[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]'' journalist investigating the scams was asked by a scammer to install TeamViewer.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2013-04/11/malwarebytes|title=What happens if you play along with a Microsoft 'tech support' scam?|work=Wired |location=UK|access-date=3 May 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/technology/digital-culture/man-records-notorious-phone-scammers-listen-and-learn-what-not-to-do/article20001798/|title= Man records phone scammers; listen and learn what not to do|work=[[Maclean's]]}} (contained in audio recording)</ref> It was reported that [[ransomware]] programs were utilizing TeamViewer as a tool to obtain remote access to infected machines.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://techtalk.gfi.com/when-your-inbox-has-a-surprise-and-its-called-ransomware/|title=When your inbox has a surprise and it's called ransomware|date=2017-07-14|work=GFI Blog|access-date=2018-08-01|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url= http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/surprise-ransomware-installed-via-teamviewer-and-executes-from-memory/ |title= Surprise Ransomware Installed via TeamViewer and Executes from Memory | website= Bleeping Computer | access-date=2016-03-23}}</ref> In the United Kingdom, the [[Internet service provider]] [[TalkTalk Group|TalkTalk]] blocked many remote access tools to protect its customers from remote service scams.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.theregister.co.uk/2017/03/09/talktalk_blocks_teamviewer/ | title=Brit ISP TalkTalk blocks control tool TeamViewer|last=Hall|first=Kat|date=9 March 2017|work=The Register|access-date=16 November 2017}}</ref>


=== Account access misuse and possible breach ===
== License policy ==
In June 2016, hundreds of TeamViewer users reported having their computers accessed by an unauthorized address in China and bank accounts [[Misappropriation|misappropriated]].<ref>{{Cite news| url= https://www.theregister.co.uk/2016/06/01/teamviewer_mass_breach_report/ |title= TeamViewer denies hack after PCs hijacked, PayPal accounts drained |work=[[The Register]] |location=UK| access-date=2016-06-03}}</ref> TeamViewer attributed the outcome to user's "careless password use" and denied all responsibility, saying "neither was TeamViewer hacked nor is there a security hole, TeamViewer is safe to use and has proper security measures in place. Our evidence points to careless use as the cause of the reported issue, a few extra steps will prevent potential abuse."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.trendmicro.com/vinfo/us/security/news/cyber-attacks/hack-on-teamviewer-after-reported-unauthorized-connections|title=Hack Suspected on TeamViewer After Users Report Unauthorized Connections - Security News - Trend Micro USA|website=www.trendmicro.com|language=en|access-date=2018-07-13}}</ref>
Private users who use TeamViewer for non-commercial purposes may use the software [[Gratis versus libre|free of charge]].<ref name="Kommerzielle Nutzung">{{Citation|language=de|url=https://www.teamviewer.com/de/pricing/kommerzielle-nutzung/|title=Kommerzielle Nutzung|publisher=TeamViewer AG|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Jörn Brien|url=https://t3n.de/news/coronavirus-teamviewer-beruflich-1262679/|title=Coronavirus: TeamViewer kannst du jetzt inoffiziell auch beruflich gratis nutzen.|website=t3n|publisher=yeebase media|date=2020-03-18|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> [[Fee|Fees]] must be paid for the commercial use of the software. Companies and other commercial customers must sign up for a [[Subscription business model|subscription]].<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://community.teamviewer.com/English/kb/articles/44373-all-about-subscription|title=All about Subscription|website=Knowledge Base / TeamViewer Community|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> A one-time purchase of the [[Application software|application]] is no longer possible since the switch from a license to a subscription model.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Michael Kroker|url=https://www.wiwo.de/my/unternehmen/it/teamviewer-ceo-steil-die-dsgvo-ist-fuer-uns-ein-wettbewerbs-vorteil/23252168.html|title=TeamViewer-CEO Steil: „Die DSGVO ist für uns ein Wettbewerbs-Vorteil“.|website=WirtschaftsWoche|date=2018-10-31|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> The prices for using the software are scaled according to the number of users as well as the number of concurrent sessions.<ref name="Kommerzielle Nutzung" /> Updates are released monthly and are included for all users.<ref name="Release Notes" />


Following the reported misuse, TeamViewer went offline several hours due to a [[denial-of-service attack]].<ref>{{cite web | url= https://www.trendmicro.com/vinfo/us/security/news/cyber-attacks/hack-on-teamviewer-after-reported-unauthorized-connections |title= Hack Suspected on TeamViewer After Users Report Unauthorized Connections |website= Trend Micro | access-date=2016-06-03}}</ref> The outage kept users from remotely logging into their computers. The company published a statement on its Web site summarizing the events and giving guidance in how users can protect themselves.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://blog.teamviewer.com/recent-cyber-attacks/|title=A Letter to TeamViewer Users on the Recent Cyber Attacks|date=2016-06-06|work=TeamViewer Blog|access-date=2018-07-13|language=en-US}}</ref> TeamViewer referred to previous LinkedIn, Tumblr, and MySpace security breaches where millions of email and password pairs were hacked and the stolen login passwords were reused by the TeamViewer accounts of the victims. Teamviewer also claimed in the same statement that they do "not store any password-equivalent data".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theregister.co.uk/2016/06/03/teamviewer_beefs_up_security/|title=TeamViewer beefs up account security after rash of PC, Mac hijacks|access-date=2018-07-13|language=en}}</ref> Throughout the ordeal, TeamViewer has maintained that it is not at fault for the account thefts. The company's handling of the matter has brought harsh criticism<ref>{{cite web |title=TeamViewer has been hacked. They are denying everything and pointing fingers at the users. |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/technology/comments/4m7ay6/teamviewer_has_been_hacked_they_are_denying/?sort=confidence}}</ref> from aggrieved customers, who accuse TeamViewer of being in "complete denial" of the problem. Following this event, TeamViewer launched additional security measures, namely Trusted Devices and enforced account password reset on unusual activity, to improve the security.
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== Security ==
Incoming and outgoing connections are equally possible via the Internet or local networks. If desired, TeamViewer can run as a Windows system service, which allows unattended access via TeamViewer. Besides, there is a [[Portable application|portable version]] of the software that runs completely without installation, for example via a [[USB]] data carrier.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|url=https://www.t-online.de/digital/download/id_54675798/si_4/die-besten-programme-fuer-den-usb-stick-.html|title=Die besten Programme für den USB-Stick – TeamViewer Portable|publisher=T-Online|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>


=== Adult services ===
The connection is established using automatically generated [[Unique identifier|unique IDs]] and [[Password|passwords]]. Before each connection, the TeamViewer network servers check the validity of the IDs of both endpoints. Security is enhanced by the [[fingerprint]], which allows users to provide additional proof of the remote device's identity. Passwords are protected against [[Brute-force attack|brute force attacks]], especially by increasing the waiting time between connection attempts exponentially.<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://community.teamviewer.com/English/kb/articles/3967-what-is-brute-force-protection|title=What is Brute-Force Protection?|website=Knowledge Base / TeamViewer Community|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> TeamViewer provides additional security features, such as [[Multi-factor authentication|two-factor authentication]], block and allow lists.
In July 2018, ''[[The Register]]'' reported the widespread use of TeamViewer in the [[BDSM]] scene, following the observation that many posts on Twitter exist where these kinds of services are offered.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theregister.co.uk/2018/07/10/teamviewer_domination_on_demand/|title=TeamViewer's big in Twitter's domination-as-a-service scene|last=Speed|first=Richard|date=10 July 2018|work=The Register|access-date=12 July 2018}}</ref>


== Security ==
Before establishing a connection, TeamViewer first checks the configuration of the device and the network to detect restrictions imposed by firewalls and other security systems. Usually, a direct [[Transmission Control Protocol|TCP]]/[[UDP-based Data Transfer Protocol|UDP]] connection can be established so that no additional ports need to be opened. Otherwise, TeamViewer falls back on other paths such as an [[HTTP tunnel]].<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://community.teamviewer.com/English/kb/articles/4139-which-ports-are-used-by-teamviewer|title=Which ports are used by TeamViewer?|website=Knowledge Base hrsg=TeamViewer Community|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>
=== Encryption and security features ===

Regardless of the connection type selected, data is transferred exclusively via secure data channels. TeamViewer includes end-to-end encryption based on [[RSA (cryptosystem)|RSA]] (4096 bits) and [[Advanced Encryption Standard|AES]] (256 bits).<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://uk.pcmag.com/networking/81992/teamviewer-introduces-new-security-measures-to-thwart-hacks|title=TeamViewer Introduces New Security Measures to Thwart Hacks|author=David Murphy|date=2016-06-04|access-date=2021-02-14}}</ref> According to the manufacturer, [[Man-in-the-middle attack|man-in-the-middle attacks]] are principally not possible. This is to be guaranteed by the signed key exchange of two key pairs.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|url=https://community.teamviewer.com/English/kb/articles/4619-security-statement-how-secure-is-teamviewer|title=How secure is TeamViewer?|website=Knowledge Base / TeamViewer Community|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>
TeamViewer includes encryption based on 4096-bit [[RSA (cryptosystem)|RSA]] private/public key exchange and [[Advanced Encryption Standard]] AES (256-bit) session encryption, [[Multi-factor authentication|two-factor authentication]], enforced password reset on unusual activity and a listing feature for trusted devices ([[Whitelisting]]).<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://uk.pcmag.com/networking/81992/news/teamviewer-introduces-new-security-measures-to-thwart-hacks|title=TeamViewer Introduces New Security Measures to Thwart Hacks|date=2016-06-04|work=PCMag UK|access-date=2018-07-13|language=en-GB}}</ref>


== Firewall and Port-forwarding ==
⚫
== Abuse ==
Configuration for port-forwarding and firewall is required in [[Remote Desktop Protocol|RDP]], but [[TeamViewer]] doesn’t need [[Port forwarding|port-forwarding]] or any configuration for the [[Firewall_(computing)|firewall]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Allen|first=Abrian|title=TeamViewer vs RDP: Choosing Your Remote Desktop Solution|url=https://www.routerhosting.com/teamviewer-vs-rdp-remote-desktop-solutions/#The_Difference_in_Security_Which_One_Is_Safer|url-status=live}}</ref>
TeamViewer and similar programs can be abused for [[Technical support scam|Technical Support Scam]].<ref>{{Citation|language=de|url=https://community.teamviewer.com/t5/Knowledge-Base-DE/TeamViewer-und-Scamming/ta-p/56403|title=TeamViewer und Scamming|website=Knowledge Base / TeamViewer Community|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> In this process, attackers pretend to be employees of well-known companies to gain control over their victims' computers. They then use a pretext to obtain money from their victims.<ref>{{Citation|language=de|author=Hajo Schulz|url=https://www.heise.de/select/ct/2016/23/1478857832099577|title=Bei Anruf Abzocke|newspaper=c’t Magazin|issue=26|date=2016|access-date=2020-02-04|page=64}}</ref> For this reason, the British Internet provider [[TalkTalk Group|TalkTalk]] temporarily blocked the software's [[Network traffic|data traffic]].<ref>{{Citation|language=en|author=Kat Hall|url=https://www.theregister.com/2017/03/09/talktalk_blocks_teamviewer/|title=Brit ISP TalkTalk Blocks Control Tool TeamViewer|website=The Register|date=2017-03-09|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref> TeamViewer condemns all forms of misuse of the software constantly improves the product in this respect, provides tips for safe use, and investigates corresponding incidents.<ref>{{Citation|language=en|url=https://www.teamviewer.com/en-us/report-a-scam/|title=Report a Scam|publisher=TeamViewer AG|access-date=2020-02-04}}</ref>


== See also ==
== See also ==
Line 55: Line 56:
== External links ==
== External links ==
* {{Official website|https://www.teamviewer.com/}}
* {{Official website|https://www.teamviewer.com/}}
* [https://community.teamviewer.com/German/ TeamViewer Community] with knowledge base and forums
* [https://www.teamviewer.com/de/trust-center/sicherheit/ TeamViewer Trust Center] with information on safety and conformity


{{Remote administration software}}
{{Remote administration software}}

Revision as of 12:53, 26 February 2021

TeamViewer
Developer(s)TeamViewer AG, Germany
Stable release(s) [±]
Windows (desktop app)15.59.3 / 29 October 2024; 18 days ago (2024-10-29)[1][2]
macOS15.59.3 / 29 October 2024; 18 days ago (2024-10-29)[3]
Linux15.59.3 / 29 October 2024; 18 days ago (2024-10-29)[4]
Android/ChromeOS15.59.582 / 25 October 2024; 22 days ago (2024-10-25)[5][6]
iOS15.59.1 / 29 October 2024; 18 days ago (2024-10-29)[7]
Windows (UWP app)15.53.6 / 15 April 2024; 7 months ago (2024-04-15)[8]
Operating systemAndroid, iOS, Linux, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Windows RT
TypeRemote administration, Web conferencing
LicenseProprietary software
Websitewww.teamviewer.com

TeamViewer is a proprietary software application for remote control, desktop sharing, online meetings, web conferencing and file transfer between computers.[9][10][11][12]

Features

TeamViewer is available for Microsoft Windows, macOS,[13][14] Linux,[15] Chrome OS,[16] iOS,[17] Android,[18] and Windows RT[19] operating systems. It is also possible to access a machine running TeamViewer with a web browser.[20] While the main focus of the application is remote control of computers, collaboration and presentation features are included.[21]

History

The software is distributed by the German company TeamViewer AG, which was founded in Göppingen, Germany in 2005. As of 2018, TeamViewer has local representations in Australia and the United States.

Two outside investments were placed in TeamViewer since 2010. The Durham, North Carolina-based company GFI Software acquired a majority stake in TeamViewer in 2010. The London-based private equity firm Permira took over GFI's stake in TeamViewer in 2014.[22]

In 2020, TeamViewer software has seen significant extra demand caused by the COVID-19 lockdown and the shift of millions of people to remote work.[23]

In July 2020, Teamviewer agreed to acquire augmented reality firm Ubimax to expand its Augmented Reality (AR) and Internet of Things (IoT) offering.[24]

Abuses

Remote service scams using TeamViewer

TeamViewer and similar services have been used to commit technical support scams via telephone calls. People are called, either at random or from a list, by criminals claiming to represent a computer support service that has identified the victim's computer as being infected by malware. Most often, the criminals pretend as if they represent well known software companies. They then ask the victim to give them access to their computer by installing a remote control service, which can allow the attacker to take over the computer in real time and infect the computer with malware or to delete or copy personal files or to pretend to have removed malware for which they charge a fee. A Wired journalist investigating the scams was asked by a scammer to install TeamViewer.[25][26] It was reported that ransomware programs were utilizing TeamViewer as a tool to obtain remote access to infected machines.[27][28] In the United Kingdom, the Internet service provider TalkTalk blocked many remote access tools to protect its customers from remote service scams.[29]

Account access misuse and possible breach

In June 2016, hundreds of TeamViewer users reported having their computers accessed by an unauthorized address in China and bank accounts misappropriated.[30] TeamViewer attributed the outcome to user's "careless password use" and denied all responsibility, saying "neither was TeamViewer hacked nor is there a security hole, TeamViewer is safe to use and has proper security measures in place. Our evidence points to careless use as the cause of the reported issue, a few extra steps will prevent potential abuse."[31]

Following the reported misuse, TeamViewer went offline several hours due to a denial-of-service attack.[32] The outage kept users from remotely logging into their computers. The company published a statement on its Web site summarizing the events and giving guidance in how users can protect themselves.[33] TeamViewer referred to previous LinkedIn, Tumblr, and MySpace security breaches where millions of email and password pairs were hacked and the stolen login passwords were reused by the TeamViewer accounts of the victims. Teamviewer also claimed in the same statement that they do "not store any password-equivalent data".[34] Throughout the ordeal, TeamViewer has maintained that it is not at fault for the account thefts. The company's handling of the matter has brought harsh criticism[35] from aggrieved customers, who accuse TeamViewer of being in "complete denial" of the problem. Following this event, TeamViewer launched additional security measures, namely Trusted Devices and enforced account password reset on unusual activity, to improve the security.

Adult services

In July 2018, The Register reported the widespread use of TeamViewer in the BDSM scene, following the observation that many posts on Twitter exist where these kinds of services are offered.[36]

Security

Encryption and security features

TeamViewer includes encryption based on 4096-bit RSA private/public key exchange and Advanced Encryption Standard AES (256-bit) session encryption, two-factor authentication, enforced password reset on unusual activity and a listing feature for trusted devices (Whitelisting).[37]

Firewall and Port-forwarding

Configuration for port-forwarding and firewall is required in RDP, but TeamViewer doesn’t need port-forwarding or any configuration for the firewall.[38]

See also

References

  1. ^ "[Windows] v15.59.3". TeamViewer Community. 2024-11-05. Retrieved 2024-11-07.
  2. ^ "Windows". TeamViewer. Retrieved 2024-11-07.
  3. ^ "[macOS] v15.59.3". TeamViewer Community. 2024-11-05. Retrieved 2024-11-07.
  4. ^ "[Linux] v15.58.4". TeamViewer Community. 2024-09-25. Retrieved 2024-11-07.
  5. ^ "[Android] Remote Control v15.58.553". TeamViewer Community. 2024-09-24. Retrieved 2024-11-07.
  6. ^ "TeamViewer Remote Control". Google Play. Retrieved 2024-11-07.
  7. ^ "[iOS] Remote Control v15.58.1". TeamViewer Community. 2024-09-24. Retrieved 2024-11-07.
  8. ^ "TeamViewer Remote". Microsoft Apps. Retrieved 2024-11-07.
  9. ^ "TeamViewer (Remote Support)". University of New England (UNE). 2013-11-01. Retrieved 2018-03-23.
  10. ^ Carl D. Rinker (16 March 2015). Advanced Home Server - Making the Complicated Easier. Carl D. Rinker. pp. 279–. GGKEY:QQADF012Z6P.
  11. ^ "TeamViewer". PCMAG. 2017-09-07. Retrieved 2018-03-23.
  12. ^ "TeamViewer Releases Major Spring Feature Update". Business Wire. 2018-03-20. Retrieved 2018-03-23.
  13. ^ TeamViewer V4desktop collaboration app now Mac-compatible Philip Michaels, Macworld
  14. ^ Article comparing screen-sharing software, Seth Rosenblatt, Cnet download blog
  15. ^ "TeamViewer 5 for Linux released". Support.teamviewer.com. 2010-04-15. Retrieved 2010-11-24.
  16. ^ "TeamViewer for Chromebooks - Work Better On-the-go". TeamViewer Blog. Retrieved 2016-01-13.
  17. ^ TeamViewer iPad App Provides Remote Access to PCs David Roe, CMSWire
  18. ^ "App (Beta) for Android released". TeamViewer. 2010-11-24. Archived from the original on 2010-12-10. Retrieved 2010-11-25.
  19. ^ "TeamViewer Touch App for Windows 8 released". Teamviewer. 2012-10-29. Retrieved 2012-12-10.
  20. ^ Spick, Geoff, "Join the crowd", Teamviewer 4.1 (article), CMS Wire.
  21. ^ "Engadget". Engadget. Archived from the original on 31 July 2012. Retrieved 3 May 2016.
  22. ^ "Permira funds to acquire leading software firm TeamViewer from GFI Software" (PDF). Permira. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2014-05-21. Retrieved 2015-07-02.
  23. ^ "Seeing extra demand and orders amid coronavirus lockdowns, TeamViewer CEO says". CNBC. 2020-04-24. Retrieved 2020-05-12.
  24. ^ Reuters Staff (2020-07-15). "Teamviewer buy augmented reality firm Ubimax". Reuters. Retrieved 2020-09-16. {{cite news}}: |author= has generic name (help)
  25. ^ "What happens if you play along with a Microsoft 'tech support' scam?". Wired. UK. Retrieved 3 May 2016.
  26. ^ "Man records phone scammers; listen and learn what not to do". Maclean's. (contained in audio recording)
  27. ^ "When your inbox has a surprise and it's called ransomware". GFI Blog. 2017-07-14. Retrieved 2018-08-01.
  28. ^ "Surprise Ransomware Installed via TeamViewer and Executes from Memory". Bleeping Computer. Retrieved 2016-03-23.
  29. ^ Hall, Kat (9 March 2017). "Brit ISP TalkTalk blocks control tool TeamViewer". The Register. Retrieved 16 November 2017.
  30. ^ "TeamViewer denies hack after PCs hijacked, PayPal accounts drained". The Register. UK. Retrieved 2016-06-03.
  31. ^ "Hack Suspected on TeamViewer After Users Report Unauthorized Connections - Security News - Trend Micro USA". www.trendmicro.com. Retrieved 2018-07-13.
  32. ^ "Hack Suspected on TeamViewer After Users Report Unauthorized Connections". Trend Micro. Retrieved 2016-06-03.
  33. ^ "A Letter to TeamViewer Users on the Recent Cyber Attacks". TeamViewer Blog. 2016-06-06. Retrieved 2018-07-13.
  34. ^ "TeamViewer beefs up account security after rash of PC, Mac hijacks". Retrieved 2018-07-13.
  35. ^ "TeamViewer has been hacked. They are denying everything and pointing fingers at the users".
  36. ^ Speed, Richard (10 July 2018). "TeamViewer's big in Twitter's domination-as-a-service scene". The Register. Retrieved 12 July 2018.
  37. ^ "TeamViewer Introduces New Security Measures to Thwart Hacks". PCMag UK. 2016-06-04. Retrieved 2018-07-13.
  38. ^ Allen, Abrian. "TeamViewer vs RDP: Choosing Your Remote Desktop Solution".{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link)
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