A SCAM involving hacking into people's home computers to steal money is targeting Cumbria, police say.
Officers said some residents had received bogus telephone calls from people claiming they are from a company called OnlineTec in order to gain access to computers.
Police have received a number of complaints from the public who had been contacted by callers using the number 02081441094.
The callers then ask to access their computer, where they take control and are able to steal money.
PC Alan Taylor, of Cumbria Police, said: “These bogus calls can be very convincing, especially for people who do not know much about computers and it is important the public is aware of them.
“My advice is that if you are suspicious of the call, just hang up.
“However people need to be aware that some of these fraud offenders do not disconnect at their end of the call, and will pretend to be from a legitimate company to endorse the fraudulent company when you try to check.
“Ensure you have completely disconnected from the last call before trying to verify if the company is legitimate.”
For more advice call Cumbria Police on 101 or visit http://www.cumbria.police.uk/advice-and-information/security/frauds--how-to-avoid-and-report-them
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