UNSCRUPULOUS companies are targeting small and medium-sized firms in Kirklees with a scare campaign demanding computer licensing details – and threatening large fines for companies that don’t respond.
IT consultancy firm ITwiser, a division of Cleckheaton-based accountancy firm Clough & Company, warned businesses not to divulge details of the computer licences to which they subscribe under any circumstances.
Martin Clark, head of ITwiser, said: “We have become aware of these official-looking letters demanding proof of computer licences and we want to make it clear to businesses that unless the letter is from a hardware manufacturer or software house they do not need to take any action.
“Of course, it’s essential that firms have the right computer licences in place for the hardware and software their employees use, but the companies issuing these letters, are in fact, simply third-party organisations who are using scare tactics to gain fees from selling extra licences.
“The threatening letters are typically being sent to smaller businesses which are the most vulnerable to such a tactic as they are less likely to have the in-house expertise that would spot that it’s a potential scam.”
Mr Clark said: “The best course of action is to ensure all the right licences are in place – and one of the best ways to do this is to use an independent firm that can help determine what is and isn’t licensed and then help sort out the right licensing package.”
Clough & Company launched ITwiser in 2008 to provide a full range of independent IT services including system audits, risk assessments, support programmes, network services and impartial advice when it comes to buying systems and equipment.
