BOGUS telephone calls are being made from people claiming to be from Microsoft or Windows, say Cumbria Police.

Police are continuing to warn the public that these bogus calls are being made in order to gain access to computers.

They have received an increase in calls from members of the public across the county who have received a telephone call from people claiming to be from Microsoft.

Targeted people are being advised during the call that there is a virus or programme problem on their personal computer and are then talked through how to allow the caller to have remote access to their computer.

Police warned that although the caller sometimes asks for money, this is not always the case and either way once people have access to your computer they can find passwords and bank details.

Microsoft has a built in system which will report any fault automatically and they will only contact you on request, but these calls are said to be convincing for those who do not know a lot about computers.

Cumbria Police said if you have not reported any fault to Microsoft, then do not allow anyone to have remote access to your computer and if you are suspicious, then hang up.

Anyone who has any concerns or would like further advice should visit www.actionfraud.org.uk