A SILVER surfer has warned others to be on their guard after he was targeted in one of the latest computer scams.

Joseph Jackson, an 89-year-old great grandfather-of-two from Lytchett Matravers, was telephoned out of the blue by a con-man masquerading as a computer expert.

This caller told the retired builder that his computer had a virus and was interfering with other users locally.

The con man then talked Joseph through a series of on-screen steps, all the time gaining remote access to his machine.

It was only when the bogus caller said the problem was rectified and demanded payment of £189 that Joseph became suspicious.

Joseph said: “He only mentioned money right at the end. When I told him I wasn’t going to pay, he said ‘Well I’m going to block your computer then.’ “The man said ‘Just watch all your icons go’ and as they were flying off my screen he said ‘Bye, bye.’”

Then Joseph, who uses his computer almost daily, was forced to call a real computer expert who came out and unlocked his system.

Joseph said: “The proper engineer said the caller had tried to take data off my computer.

“I don’t want any other people to be taken in by this con.”

Similar scams have been reported from as far afield as Sydney, Australia.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: “If people have any doubts whether a caller is genuine, never be afraid to ask for contact details.

“Then go away for a while, ask neighbours, friends and family what they think, and call them back.

“A responsible vendor will always be understanding.”