Police issue warning over bitcoin scam email
RESIDENTS in Charnwood are being warned by police to beware of email scams currently circulating.
Inspector Mark Botte, of Charnwood Police, said: “Just want to warn of a bit coin scam that is currently going around to personal computer users.
“The scam involves a scammer sending you an email with a password attached, they then attempt to convince you that they have access to all your browser history and access to your web cam. There are also further threats that if you do not purchase a $2000 bit coin they will contact 11 people known to you and disclose what you have been looking at on your computer.
“This is clearly not any form of official email from any legal organisation, if you receive ANY email that asks you to purchase anything online that you have not requested please do not even engage in email traffic with the scammers.
“Please remember that no legitimate financial institution will ever ask you to confirm passwords over the phone or email, if you suspect any email is false do not respond.
“Unfortunately we have seen Covid 19 being exploited by criminals who have also offered testing for a fee, this is not part of the Public Health England agenda and if you get any emails asking for payment in return for a test then this will be a scam and often a foot into the door of your finances online.
“I appreciate that many of you will be aware of these scams, however if you have family or friends who may be vulnerable to this type of crime please share as saving at least one person from becoming a victim to this type of crime is well worth the effort.”