Computer scammers claim to be cops

POLICE are issuing a warning about a computer virus which is impersonating Northern Constabulary’s e-crime unit.

The scam involves an on-screen message which locks the users computer and is alleged to be from the Northern Constabulary e-crime unit.

The user is requested to pay £100 unlock the machine.

In previous scams this has been displayed as the Metropolitan Police’s central e-crime unit or West Yorkshire Police.

Northern Constabulary would like to advise the public that no police force would contact the public by this means and would never request money directly.

Police would advise members of the public of the following:

• Do not respond to any message;

• Do not give out any personal information (including your bank details);

• Ensure your computer’s anti-virus software is up to date;

• Use only trusted websites and make sure your web browser is up to date.

Fraud and Internet Crime can be reported to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/