Utica, NY (WIBX) - The New York State Police Computer Crime Unit has issued a warning about the new release of a hoax e-mail that takes the appearance of a traffic ticket from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.

The e-mail does not come from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles or the New York State Police.

The message requests the recipient to open a .zip file attachment, which contains a virus.

At this time, all different types of e-mail accounts are being targeted.

The New York State Police and the National Crime Prevention Council remind computer users of the following cyber-crime prevention tips to protect themselves:

* Use anti–virus software, firewalls, and other security measures to protect your personal information.

* Only open e–mails from familiar sources and only navigate to trusted sites.

* Change your passwords every 90 days and do not allow your computer's programs to save them.

* Back–up important files to external storage devices and be vigilant when downloading from the Internet.

* Install parental control software and monitor your child's Internet use to keep kids safe online.

* Establish family guidelines for appropriate computer use.

The e-mail subject line may contain the title "UNIFORM TRAFFIC TICKET."

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