"This is a form of digital extortion, " said the BKA in its alert about the virus.

BBC: Ransomware page

Scottish livestock producers have been put on high alert after a virus affecting cattle and sheep was detected in northern England.

BBC: Schmallenberg virus: Scottish farmers put on high alert

According to Reuters, the World Health Organization (WHO) originally issued an international alert in late September saying a virus previously unknown in humans had infected a Qatari man who had recently been in Saudi Arabia, where another man with the same virus had died.

FORBES: Is a New SARS-like Virus Spreading in the Middle East?

They can alert and ask you whether you want to receive suspected virus-filled material.

CNN: LKY On Asia Ahead

The fake alert then prompted the user to install fake anti-virus software.

BBC: Hackers website