Bogus 'Department of Justice' emails used in latest online scam

Police in Grande Prairie are warning about a new computer scam that masquerades as an official government email.

The scam involves an email claiming to be sent bythe Department of Justice on behalf of theonlineCrown Prosecution Service.

The email claims recipients have been summoned to appear in court as witnessesand invites them to click on a link to view case details.

Clicking on the link allows the sender to installa virus on victims' computers.

"The RCMP would like to remind the public that if summoned to court, documentation will be served in person not via e-mail, text message or via telephone," police said Tuesday in a news release.

The RCMP release warned peoplenot to click on any links found within such emails.

The federalDepartment of Justice issued a similar warningabout fraudulent emails in June.

Those targeted are asked tocontact police or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online.