SCAM EMAILS - 'DO NOT RESPOND'!

The 'begging letters', from an unknown source, were sent out under the umbrella of the Glebeside Community Association, Ballymoney - a completely innocent body - after their computer was hacked into.

In the past week two of the emails were sent to the Ballymoney and Moyle Times office, however it is believed hundreds of other local organisations, charities and companies have also received them.

The email reads: 'Hi, Happy to reach you by email with the hope that everything works perfect for you and I'm sorry for not informing you about my trip to England for seminar. Unfortunately I misplaced my wallet where I kept my money and other relevant document on the way to my apartment and I'm sending this message to you with inconveniency cuz I need your financial assistance with an urgent loan of $2500usd to tide my self over and to insure my safe return home as soon as I can and I'll appreciate whatever you can afford to assist me out of my misfortune. I promise to pay you back as soon as I returned home so please kindly let me know and I'll send you details to transfer the loan.

I will be waiting to read back from you.'

Speaking to the Times Noel Anderson, Development Officer from the Glebeside Community Association confirmed: "Recently our computer was broken into and it is believed our password and all our contact details were taken.

"Whoever has done this has then sent these begging emails to everyone on our system pretending to be us.

"I returned from a trip to England last Thursday to find out this has been going on - it''s madness. I've already received over 170 emails from people we know explaining that they have got this scam email.

"All I would say to everyone is DO NOT RESPOND! We have been in contact with the police and we have got it sorted out now."

Warning people of the emails, Inspector David Anderson, Ballymoney said: "A similar email has been brought to our attention and we are investigating its' source.

"I would take this opportunity to remind the public that they should never divulge personal or bank account details to any third party unless they are completely sure of their bona fides.

"This applies to telephone, email or doorstep requests. Always ask personal callers for formal identification and if in doubt contact the PSNI on 0845 6008000. "