It is important that everybody take a warning about cyber scams very seriously to avoid the inconvenience, and in some cases devastation, that they can cause.

The internet is delivering more scams than ever into our inbox and unfortunately, scammers are putting in more effort to make them seem genuine.

What started as generic emails promising millions of dollars from a long-lost relative, who also happened to be a prince, has morphed into sophisticated bills and letters, that are almost identical to legitimate ones.

They can be sent in mass numbers to thousands of emails and even if they only catch a small percentage, it still represents a large payday for the offenders.

The current email that is catching people out claims to be an AGL bill. Clicking a link from the email installs a virus on the computer, which then blocks access to all files until a fee is paid.

It can play havoc with individuals and even more so with businesses. Without access to a backup, people can lose years of records and data or photographs and other information.

Some people choose to pay the “ransom” because it is less hassle than finding other ways to retrieve documents.

There are two problems with this. The first being that there is no guarantee that the criminal will actually unlock access, meaning they get the money and the user is left worse off.

But even if the data is unlocked, the transfer of payment encourages the offender to continue the practice.

The other, even more dangerous one, installs a program that logs keyboard data and allows them to break into accounts such as online banking. It can result in the loss of entire savings.

The best possible thing to do is use prevention. Strong and up-to-date anti-virus software is a good start and if data is important, backing it up is a must.

Finally, question everything. Even if it comes from a phone or electricity provider that you deal with, double check. If it asks for personal details or to download something, a phone call could help sort it out.

It is unfortunate that it has come to that but cyber crime has become such a lucrative industry that it is an everyday part of life, and just part of living in a connected world.