A BLAIRHALL man is warning West Fifers to be aware of scammers attempting to access their computers by purporting to be from BT Openreach.

Barry Cruickshank contacted the Press after he was targeted by scammers asking unsuspecting victims to download a free piece of software called Team Viewer, which allows remote access to be granted to their computer, which they can then use to access their machine and put their personal security at risk.

Barry commented: "I've had three or four calls in the last two weeks from people claiming to be from BT calling to say that my internet connection has been slowing down due to malicious programmes on my computer. They are asking people to download a free programme called Team Viewer, which they also have, and if you give them a code they can access your computer and remove them.

"I have used it to fix problems with my mum's computer as she stays in Cupar, so I knew what it can be used for.

"People who are not aware could have personal details taken from their computer."

Dawn Adamson, lead trading standards officer with Fife Council, said: "We are not aware of this particular scam. If you suspect a scam or think you or someone you know has been a victim of a scam, please report it to the Citizens Consumer Advice Helpline on 03454 04 05 06 or Action Fraud on 0300 123 20 40."

She added that things to look out for to spot a scam include phone calls out of the blue, letters and emails, being asked to send money to claim a prize, being told of winnings when a competition wasn’t entered, too good to be true offers, pressure-selling, uninvited doorstep callers, being asked to share your personal details, and secrecy.