We rely on our computers for almost everything—work, communication, banking, and even storing our most personal memories. So when something goes wrong, we rush to get it fixed, often without a second thought. But have you ever stopped to consider what happens to your data while your device is in someone else’s hands?
With computer repair in Singapore becoming more common, it’s easy to assume our files are safe during a routine fix. But as technology becomes a bigger part of our daily routines, protecting our personal data is more important than ever. Before handing over your laptop or desktop, it’s worth knowing the risks—and what you can do to keep your information safe.
Summary
A Talking Point investigation in Singapore has revealed that some repair technicians snoop through private files, access personal accounts, and even clone data from customers’ mobile phones and laptops without consent. Of 40 devices sent for repairs, 12 were found to have been accessed improperly, with some technicians copying sensitive information like payslips and passwords onto external drives. Some even tried to cover their tracks by deleting browser history and using unconventional methods, like viewing images through Microsoft Paint 3D. The experiment, conducted with the help of NUS Greyhats, demonstrated that technicians often browse files unnecessarily, despite repairs not requiring such access. This raises serious concerns about data privacy, especially with the increasing number of repair shops in Singapore. Past incidents, including a technician jailed for leaking intimate photos, highlight the potential risks customers face when entrusting their devices to repair services.
Reflection: Are Your Private Files Safe at the Repair Shop?
Most of us don’t think twice before handing over our laptops or phones for repair. A cracked screen, a faulty battery, or a stubborn software glitch—these are everyday tech problems. But a recent investigation by Talking Point has raised an alarming question: How safe is our personal data when our devices are in someone else’s hands?
The report found that some repair technicians in Singapore go beyond fixing the issue at hand. They snoop through personal photos, open private documents, and even attempt to access accounts like Gmail and Snapchat. In some cases, sensitive files were copied onto external drives without permission. Now, this isn’t just a breach of trust—it’s a violation of privacy.
What’s most unsettling is how casual this misconduct seems to be. The investigation revealed that three in ten technicians snooped when there was no technical reason to do so. Some even tried to cover their tracks, deleting browser history and using alternative ways to open files. If this is happening during a controlled test, how often does it happen to unsuspecting customers in real life?
Singapore’s repair industry has grown significantly over the years, from 460 businesses in 2010 to over 1,000 today. With more repair shops opening, the competition is fierce, but so is the potential for abuse. While most technicians are honest professionals, a few bad apples can easily tarnish the industry’s reputation.
The truth is, consumers are often left vulnerable. Most people don’t know how to check if their files have been accessed, let alone prove wrongdoing. And once personal data is stolen, the damage is irreversible. Leaked photos, stolen passwords, or even identity theft can have lasting consequences.
So, what can we do?
How to Keep Your Data Safe When Getting Your Device Fixed
Our computers store so much of our personal information—work files, saved passwords, and even private photos. Before handing yours over for repairs, here are a few simple steps to keep your data safe and out of the wrong hands.
1. Backup Your Data
Before taking your device in for repairs, make sure to back up your files. Use an external hard drive or a cloud service like Google Drive or OneDrive—this way, you won’t risk losing important documents, photos, or software settings.
2. Remove or Encrypt Sensitive Files
If you have personal files on your device, it’s best to remove them or move them to an external drive. If that’s not an option, encrypt them using built-in tools like BitLocker (Windows) or FileVault (Mac). That way, even if someone tries to access them, they won’t be able to open the files.
3. Log Out of Personal Accounts
Make sure to sign out of email, banking apps, social media, and any other personal accounts. You can also remove saved passwords from your browser or store them in a password manager until your device is back in your hands.
4. Use a Guest or Dummy Account
If your device allows multiple users, set up a temporary guest account for the technician to use. This keeps them from accessing your main account and personal files.
5. Take Note of Your Installed Apps and Files
Before sending your device in, make a quick record of your installed apps, files, and recent activity. This makes it easier to spot any unauthorized changes later. You can even set up screen recording software to monitor any activity while your computer is in the shop.
6. Choose a Trusted Repair Shop
Not all repair shops are the same, so do some research first. Check customer reviews, ratings, and recommendations. Certified repair centers or authorized service providers usually have stricter privacy policies and professional standards.
7. Ask About Data Privacy Policies
A reputable repair shop should be upfront about how they handle customer data. Before handing over your device, ask about their privacy policies—most repairs shouldn’t require access to your personal files.
8. Check for Signs of Snooping After Repair
Once you get your computer back, take a moment to check your browser history, recent files, and login activity. If anything looks off—like deleted logs or opened files—it could be a sign that someone accessed your data without permission.
Conclusion
Most computer technicians are trustworthy, but it’s always smart to be careful when handing over a device filled with personal information. Taking a few simple steps can help protect your data and reduce the risk of privacy breaches. After all, getting your computer fixed shouldn’t come at the cost of your personal security.
