Police have warned internet users not to be lured by a scam that flashes a police logo on their screens and attempts to trick them into handing over cash.
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The Australian Federal Police released a statement today saying it has received reports of an online scam, which flashes a pop-up message telling users their computer is locked.
The scam shows an AFP logo and tries to lure the user into paying money to unlock the computer.
The pop-up message is caused by a virus.
The AFP have warned they do not solicit funds, and that the message is not associated with the policing agency in any way.
AFP manager of cybercrime operations commander Glen McEwen warned users to be wary of such scams.
He said there were measures that could be taken to avoid being fooled.
"Users affected by this particular scam should not pay any money and should seek support from a repair centre if they need assistance to remove the virus," Commander McEwen said.
Users should maintain anti-virus software, ensure their operating system is completely updated, use strong passwords, and restrict the amount of personal information they put on the internet.
Police also warned that financial or other personal information should not be handed out to people that are not known or not trusted.
Anyone who thinks they may have been victim to this type of fraud should report it to SCAMwatch on 1300 795 995 or go to www.scamwatch.gov.au.
