The scam works by renaming all of your files with a virus and will then prompt you to spend money to fix the problem

EBAY shoppers are being warned not to open an email which will end up locking their computer and steal their bank account details.

The fake email tells users that they’ve spent a hefty amount of money on the auction site and that they should pay the invoice via a download link

But by clicking on the link, shoppers will accidentally install a Locky Ransomware onto your computer.

Action Fraud issued the warning on Twitter after it received more than 50 reports.

Ransomware is a type of cyberattack that sees hackers take control of computers, tablets or mobile phones and demand a payment.

Often the hackers trick the user into downloading malicious software – using a dodgy email or app – and encrypt the victim’s information.

In most cases, the ransom amount to a few hundred pounds and has to be paid on Bitcoins.

Victims are advised never to pay the ransom as it encourages hackers to keep doing them and doesn’t guarantee that you will get your files back.

Prevention and Advice

• If you think someone has gained access to your account, change your eBay and PayPal passwords immediately
• Contact your bank/credit card issuer to cancel unauthorised transactions
• Make a police report using the Action Fraud website. Even if the police aren’t able to take the matter further, your report will still help them to build up a picture of fraud activity.
• Contact eBay and inform Customer Services about what has happened – they can provide further useful information and initiate actions against any fraudulent accounts