THE Office of Fair Trading has advised consumers and businesses to be wary if they receive telephone calls from people claiming to represent IT suppliers.

 
A number of people have contacted the office after receiving calls, out of the blue, from people who say they are from Microsoft or Windows Maintenance.

Following an initial chat about a problem or warning on their computer, the caller has turned the conversation to how much they would charge to fix the alleged problem.

Bill Henderson MHK, chairman of the Office of Fair Trading, said: "Consumers should be very careful to ensure that they know who they are dealing with. 

"It is likely that these people are trying to get you to hand over personal or financial information as well as money. If this information gets into the wrong hands it can be disastrous for you. Bank accounts can be emptied and your personal details used to set up fraudulent identities. 

"Clearly not all contacts you receive will be of this type but legitimate businesses welcome consumers who take care of their information so do not feel embarrassed to check them out before you do any business with them. If you are concerned or unsure, put the phone down. Then check. Don't give any details out."

Although legitimate companies may contact consumers by telephone it is important to make checks on the company before agreeing to any services they offer.

For more details on how to protect yourself in a situation like this click here.