CON-ARTISTS have been targeting borough residents and posing as computer technicians to steal their bank details.
Hammersmith and Fulham Trading Standards have received a number of complaints from residents who had been called by people claiming to be from Microsoft.
They are told that their computers are infecting others in the area and that the technicians need to access them to fix the problem.
Once inside the computer, the scammers will try to find bank account or card details.
Councillor Greg Smith, H&F Council cabinet member for resident's services, said: "We have only heard of a handful of cases in H&F where residents have been contacted in this way and, luckily, there have been no reports of any money being stolen.
"However, residents should stay vigilant and not give out any personal details to people they do not know."
People are advised that large companies, such as Microsoft, are unlikely to directly contact customers.
Anyone needing a computer repaired should visit www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk to find businesses approved by Trading Standards.
For advice or to report a suspected scam, call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk .
Follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest borough news, sport and chit chat.
