COMPUTER users are being warned by Kent police about unwittingly passing over personal details on the web after two new scams were uncovered.

The force's computer crime unit has received a number of calls recently from people who have been duped by a bogus Hotmail page.

The computer user, who will have a Hotmail e-mail account, receives a message purporting to be from Microsoft that asks them to click on a link.

The link will take them to what appears to be a genuine Hotmail page where they are asked to confirm details about their Hotmail account.

In the process, they are asked to send information, including passwords that could allow the fraudsters access to other online accounts the person may use.

Det Con Miles Bishop, from the force's computer crime unit, said: "We know this particular scam has been going on for at least two months and we are aware of at least five occasions where people have passed over personal details.

"We have also had inquiries from people who have received the e-mail but were cautious and did not reply. The instances where personal details were divulged have led to the unauthorised access of bank accounts, corporate websites and e-mail accounts."

The second scam is also designed to obtain personal information from the computer-user and again starts with an e-mail.

The message comes from carderportal.com and tells the user about a money laundering service that has charged an amount - usually in US dollars - to their credit card.

The user is then told that in order to cancel the transaction, they should enter details of their account including passwords and PIN numbers.

"We know that people have replied to this e-mail because it does seem genuine," said Det Con Bishop. "Fortunately no-one has lost money as a result."

He added: "I urge people to think very carefully before replying to e-mails. Be very suspicious of anything that is asking for personal information. Your bank, credit card company or other reputable organisation would not ask for your details in this way. If in doubt do not provide the information."

Anyone with information is asked to call the computer crime unit on 01622 690690.