POLICE are warning computer users to watch out for malware scams circulating the internet claiming to be from law enforcement agencies.
Cheshire Police has issued the warning and said the malware locks screens and demands people to pay a fine to get their computers unlocked.
The malware infects personal computers after users have accessed certain websites.
Officers from the Metropolitan Police Central e-Crime Unit (PCeU) are working with international law enforcement agencies to investigate.
Computer users are advised not to pay out any money or provide out any bank details.
Cheshire Police said the force would never contact members of the public via email and demand funds in this way.
In order to reduce the chances of being infected by this or similar malware, police strongly recommend that anti-virus software is both used and routinely updated to keep pace with new threats.
Anyone who has fallen victim to such a message and paid any money should report the offence by dialling 101.
Virus and malware infections where no money has been lost can be logged at www.actionfraud.org.uk.