Police have warned the public to be on their guard against computer scams.

A total of nine people in the country fell victim to 40 reported scams.

Criminals have been using a number of tactics to steal money from victims.

In some calls, the fraudsters state they are from a computer company, and explain that there is a problem with the victim’s computer such as a virus and that they can fix the problem for a fee.

In other instances, the offenders persuade the victims to grant them remote access to their computers, enabling control the computer from anywhere in the world.

This allows them access to personal files and data, including bank account details.

In nine instances reported to the police in Hertfordshire, people have lost money.

Detective Inspector Danny Lawrence, who leads the Cyber Crime Unit for the East of England, said: "Whilst it is of concern that this type of scam has been successful in a number of cases, most people are recognising the call for what it is and we have been working with Microsoft’s security team and Action Fraud in order to tackle this scam.

"As can be seen, it isn’t a particular group of people targeted by the offenders: people of all ages have been contacted and it is possible a large number of people have not reported being called.

"Computer firms, like Microsoft, do not make unsolicited phone calls and do not send unsolicited emails, requesting personal or financial information or offering to fix people’s computers."

Detective Inspector Lawrence also added that all unexpected calls and emails should be treated with suspicion, and members of the public should never reveal their personal or financial details in these circumstances.

Anyone who believes they may have been targeted by this scam can contact Hertfordshire Constabulary via the non-emergency number 101.