One North London-based printer, who declined to be named, said he was contacted by an individual via e-mail requesting a quote for printed stationery.

Although suspicions were aroused, an e-mail with a quote which contained company registration details and directors' names was forwarded in reply.

Several weeks later the printer was contacted by a computer supply company who became suspicious when they were asked to deliver numerous items of computer equipment to a residential address in East London.

The order had been made using the printer's letterhead information, with the address details being replaced.The matter was later reported to the local police.

East London-based Moor Envelopes has reported a similar experience.Production manager Simon Kirby declined to hand over full company details to two individuals who recently visited his premises, regarding quotes for future work.

However, the two later visited another business in the area, with a similar request and Kirby made a note of their car registration number.This was reported to local police who found the car had been stolen.

Police at Bow and Southgate are investigating both cases.

Story by Andy Scott