Internet users warned about email scam

Police are warning internet users to beware of a scam in which a fake message featuring the Police logo appears on their computer screen saying they have been fined and to enter banking details.

Police say they have received a handful of calls about the scam, in which people accessing adult websites receive a message purportedly from NZ Police advising them they have been fined for accessing the site and to pay a fee.

In at least one case, the person's computer was frozen and they were advised that it would remain frozen until they paid the fee into the account.

Police have no association with any of the websites and suggest users avoid accessing such sites. Police also encourage web users to protect their computers with appropriate anti-virus software.

Additional information about staying safe on the internet is available at http://www.netsafe.org.nz/