Although there haven’t been any reports from the Isle of Wight yet, worth watching out for this scam. This just in from the Police. Ed
Police are issuing a warning about a scam targeting internet users that’s being reported across Hampshire and other parts of the country.
The computer user receives a pop-up message claiming to be from Strathclyde Police or the Metropolitan Police Service.
What happens
The message states that person’s computer has been locked by the police and they will need to pay a fine at a Paypoint or online.
Detective Inspector Justin Torgout from Hampshire Constabulary’s Force Intelligence Bureau said: “The scam has absolutely nothing to do with either police force or the police service in general.
“No police force would ever ask the public for money in this way.
“If this happens to you, please remember this is a scam. Do not pay up and report it to the police.
“Prevention really is the best cure”
He went on to say, “Prevention really is the best cure, which is why it’s crucial to make people aware of these scams.
“Realistically, it’s difficult for the police to seek to trace the persons responsible; often they are located outside the UK and will have taken steps to hide their tracks. However, it remains important that we know about such incidents.
“If you are concerned about on line security it is recommended that you seek specialist advice to ensure your computer is protected against online viruses and threats.”
Image: celine nadeau under CC BY 2.0
