THE Office of Fair Trading is repeating its warning to residents and business to be wary if they receive telephone calls from people claiming to represent IT suppliers without warrant.
Recently the OFT has received messages from consumers and local businesses who have taken calls from people warning them that there may be problems on their computers.
In these instances callers have claimed they are representatives of Microsoft Windows Maintenance, who have then offered information regarding fees to deal with the problem that has been established.
The OFT reiterated: ‘Don’t feel obliged to continue with the conversation – put the phone down.’
The OFT is also offering advice to any worried consumers:
•It is important to protect your financial information, and you should never offer bank details to someone you are not satisfied is legitimate.
•If you carry on with the call, tell the caller that you will contact them should you decide to take up their offer. Do not make an immediate decision.
•Ask for their full contact details, including a telephone number. Be sceptical if they only provide a mobile phone number.
•If the company alleges to be based in the UK, check with Companies House (www.companieshouse.gov.uk) to make sure that it is correctly registered.
•To have your details removed from telemarketing lists, you can contact the Telephone Preference Service on 0845 070 0707 or visit the website {http:www.tps online.org.uk|www.tps online.org.uk}
