Northumberland Citizens Advice Bureau is warning that as more and more transactions are carried out over the phone and online, scammers are increasing in numbers.

Social policy development officer Rachel Turnbull said: "Scammers are becoming ever more sophisticated and we are always hearing of new scams.

"If you let your guard down and think you won't be fooled you could become a victim."

There are, however, things you can do to stop yourself being conned in this way.

Never give out your bank or other account details.

Banks never ask for this information via e-mails or pop-ups and you may find yourself with an empty bank account or bills run up in your name.

If you are told you have won a prize-draw or a competition you can not remember entering be suspicious.

You may be asked to call a premium rate number or send an administration fee before you can claim your prize, which then doesn't materialise.

E-mails asking for help transferring a sums of money from a foreign bank account should head straight to the recycling bin.

This is a common cover-up used to trick people.

Always check through bank and credit card statements as soon as you get them so that you can report any suspicious activity straight away.

Always check the credentials of anyone you wish to trade with online and beware of using money transfer services as these can rarely be traced.

Use a credit card if at all possible as these are insured against fraud if things go wrong.

For more information on rights when buying over the internet or if you think you have been the victim of, or suspect, a scam go to
www.adviceguide.org.uk or contact a Citizen's Advice Bureau.