Two Eltham residents are warning others after an increase in fraudulent calls from companies that claim to know what websites you use.

In the last couple of days residents in Eltham have taken to Facebook to warn others after being targeted by nuisance calls.

One woman commented: “Earlier this week, my mum received a phone call from someone claiming to be 'Microsoft'. Apparently they had rung the week before but she wasn’t available.

“They knew lots of details, obviously phone number and that Amazon is a regular site. They managed to keep her talking whilst she was on the laptop - by doing so they had hacked into the laptop and was able to access all bank account and personal info.

“She was able to visibly see them typing on the screen. All associated banks have been advised and cards etc blocked, as a safety precaution.

“Genuine Microsoft were contacted and they have confirmed that Microsoft as a company would never contact people.”

News Shopper reported on a similar issue a month ago when an Eltham resident was harassed by a man who wanted to switch his internet off.

Another apparent victim took to Facebook and said: “Just to let people know their is a new phone scam going around.

“I just had a call it was a automated voice who informed me that HMRC had a warrant issued for my arrest in the next hour for outstanding money owed to them and to stop my arrest press one to be put through to pay my bill by credit card.

“Well I put phone down ...lol.... But just worried that someone older might fall for this and get scammed for a lot of money .... Please share .... This was the number they called from 01557571283.”

Here is what you should do if you get a nuisance call:

Register the number calling you with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) and they can block the number from calling you again

If you suspect anything, put the phone down immediately

Out of the blue calls should be a red flag to you - companies are unlikely to ever call you without warning

Legitimate companies never ask you to hand over any details unless you have been warned before from a letter

Never hand over your card details to ANYONE that has called demanding it to stop something happening (internet being cut off, gas/electricity cut off)

Get caller ID and if you don't recognise it, let it go to answer phone.

Deals are never as good as they will make them sound

Even if they sound convincing. Hang up and call your providers back on the number you use normally.

For more information visit Action Fraud - TPS - Which?