INTERNET fraudsters are targeting Suffolk computer users as police warn members of the public to be aware of an internet scam which could be triggered by them responding to an e-mail on their computer.

INTERNET fraudsters are targeting Suffolk computer users as police warn members of the public to be aware of an internet scam which could be triggered by them responding to an e-mail on their computer.

Examples of the scam – known as "advanced fee fraud" – have occurred nationwide in the past.

However, Suffolk Police has become aware that this type of fraud has resurfaced in recent months - with some residents being targeted.

Potential victims receive an e-mail from someone purporting to be a professional person such as a bank manager or politician in a foreign country, usually in West Africa.

This person states that he or she has come into a large sum of money which cannot be invested in his or her country – but can be invested in a British account.

The e-mail then promises a percentage of the money if the recipient replies providing a name and address, with a view to allowing their account to be used for the transfer of the money.

Once that is done, the victim is asked to send over a sum of cash to assist with the transfer of the large sum of money.

Det Sgt Kevin Hegarty, of Suffolk Constabulary's Economic Crime Unit, said: "The money promised is entirely fictitious – but some people are taken in by this scam and do forward money in the belief that a large sum of cash will be deposited in their account."

"Our advice to people who receive one of these e-mails is simple: do not reply."

Anyone with information on these scams should contact the economic crime unit via the central switchboard on 01473 613500.