Police have issued a phone scammers warning to people in the Highlands and islands.
Three cases of suspected fraud have been reported over the past few days in Ross-shire, Strathspey and Stornoway.
On each occasion the victim was advised by the caller – who claimed to be from computer giant Microsoft – that their Windows system needed a clean-up.
A set amount was requested via a credit card before a larger sum was deducted with no proof of purchase or services provided.
As a result, victims had three-figure sums charged to their accounts.
Police have warned people never to provide bank or card details over the phone during an unexpected or cold call and to ask for a phone number from the caller on the premise of calling them back.
Anyone who thinks they have been the victim of a fraud should contact the police on 101.
Highlands and Islands residents warned of phone scam
