A scam email is currently being sent to computer users in south Bucks, with a fake Royal Mail attachment containing a dangerous virus.

The victim receives an email purporting to be from the Royal Mail stating that they are holding a parcel or letter for the victim.

The recipient is then required to contact the Royal Mail to arrange for the item to be resent or collected.

By following the instructions within the email a ‘CryptoLocker’ virus is subsequently downloaded.

This virus encrypts files on the victim’s system and requests a ransom be paid in order for the files to be decrypted.

And an additional ‘incentive’ is listed, with the ransomware stating the cost of decrypting the files will increase the longer the fine is outstanding.

The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau has issued the following advice:

• Look at who the email is addressed to. Is it generic or specifically addressed?

• Look at the quality of the images included on the email. Are they of sufficient high quality that they could come from Royal Mail?

• Do not open attachments from unsolicited emails regardless of who they are from.

• Do not click on the link supplied. Instead, go to the relevant website and log in from there.

• Check the address of any email received to see if it appears legitimate.

If you believe that you have been a victim of fraud you can report it online http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report_fraud or by telephone 0300 123 2040.