How to Let a Family Member See Your Screen Safely

Trying to describe a confusing computer error or phone screen over a voice call can be exhausting: “Which button are you looking at? The blue one or the square one?” Screen-sharing allows a trusted family member to view your screen in real time so they can guide you step by step.

Option 1: Screen-Sharing on iPhone or iPad via FaceTime

If you and your family member both have Apple devices, screen-sharing is built directly into FaceTime:

1. Start a regular FaceTime video call with your family member.
2. Tap your screen once to reveal the call control toolbar.
3. Tap the Share Screen icon (it looks like a small person in front of a rectangular screen).
4. Tap Share My Screen. A 3-second countdown will appear, and then your family member will see your screen.
5. To stop sharing, simply tap the Share icon again or end the call.

Option 2: Screen-Sharing on Any Phone via WhatsApp

WhatsApp works across all phones (iPhone and Android alike):

1. Start a video call with your family member on WhatsApp.
2. Tap the screen to see the controls at the bottom.
3. Tap the icon that looks like a phone with an arrow pointing right.
4. Confirm by tapping Start Now. Your family member can now see exactly what is on your screen.

Option 3: Screen-Sharing on a Windows Computer via Quick Assist

Windows 10 and 11 come with a free, safe built-in tool called Quick Assist:

1. Press the Windows Key on your keyboard, type Quick Assist, and press Enter.
2. Your family member will generate a 6-digit security code on their computer and read it to you over the phone.
3. Enter their 6-digit code in the box that says Code from assistant and click Submit.
4. Click Allow to let them view your screen.

You Are Always in Control

Whenever you share your screen, remember:

• You can end the session at any moment with one click.
• They cannot access your device when the call ends.
• Never type in banking passwords or credit card numbers while screen-sharing.