Warning over unsolicited calls

The warning comes following a number of phone calls to local residents from a caller claiming to be from Microsoft.

The caller asks for access to the home computer to remove viruses and requests a fee.

In one case a resident allowed access to their computer and had £400 taken from their account.

Constable Liam Munt said: “I would urge everyone to be mindful of any calls of this nature.

“Never give out personal details over the phone to unsolicited callers.

“If you are unsure of a caller or feel that something is not right then ask for details to check their identity,” he added.

“Ask where they are phoning from, where they have got your details from and where they have obtained your telephone number.

“Also, ask them if there is a number you can phone them back on or if there is another representative from their company that you can contact.

“In some cases of this nature residents will be given a mobile number to ring which diverts them to a premium rate number, costing hundreds of pounds per minute.

“If you haven’t requested a computer company to phone you about problems on your computer then end the call.

“You can contact the company or business they claim to be from to check if the call is genuine. Legitimate companies won’t have a problem with you calling them back.

“Scammers are inventive and can be very convincing, however each scam has just one purpose - to tempt you into dropping your guard - so please be wary.

“If you have received a contact of this kind or are concerned by the intent of unsolicited calls, emails or letters then please report it to us on the non-emergency telephone number 101.”