A 'sextortion' scam email is doing the rounds, threatening to reveal compromising images and videos of the recipient unless a transfer of cash via Bitcoin is made.
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The email may also claim to have compromised a computer, router or other electronic device and it can include a password which the recipient has used in the past.
A NSW Police spokesperson said in most cases, if you receive an email "there is no reason to be concerned".
"These emails are typically generated in their thousands by online scammers using limited personal details that they are able to collect from the internet," NSW Police said.
"If the email includes a password which you recognise then you should change all accounts which use this password. Don't reply to the scammer and delete the email."
It is important to use a strong password and not reuse passwords across different accounts.
The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) is aware of the sextortion scam email campaign.
The ACSC, Office of the eSafety Commissioner and Scamwatch have received more than 300 reports this week.
This scam email may appear to originate from an individual's own email address and threatens to release personal and sensitive information unless the scammer is paid money.
Sextortion is a form of online blackmail where a perpetrator threatens to reveal intimate images of someone online, often to their friends and family, unless they pay a ransom.
This is commonly in untraceable crypto-currency. Typically, the scammers have no compromising information.
While the ACSC has not received any reports of financial loss, the Centre would like to remind Australians to not make payments and cease all contact with the scammers.
If you still have concerns then report them to the Office of the eSafety Commissioner who will provide further advice and support. Refrain from giving the scammer money and cease all contact.
If you have concerns about your physical safety, call Triple Zero (000) or contact Southern Highlands Police on 4868 1222.
Further information on securing your online accounts can be found in the ACSC's Easy Steps Guide.
To report a cyber security incident to police, visit cyber.gov.au/report.
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