Published Tuesday, 02 October 2012
Police are warning the public to be vigilant. (© Getty)
Officers have received reports of computers users receiving messages which result in their screens freezing.
The message delivers a warning that the computer has been locked as a result of being used for illegal purposes.
It states that a fine must be paid or the computer user will be subjected to a criminal investigation.
A police spokeswoman said: "These messages are fraudulent and police never demands payments in this way.
"If you receive suspicious messages such as this you are advised to report it to police immediately and under no circumstances should you try and pay any "fine".
"Police in your area can be contacted on 0845 600 8000."