POLICE are warning the public to be wary of emails purporting to be from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

Thousands of people nationwide have been targeted by hoax emails, claiming to be from NICE.

The email informs them that as a result of a recent blood test, cancer was suspected and they should contact their GP.

The recipients are advised to download their results from an attached link, which may contain malware that displays a false security warning to entice the victim to buy rogue anti-spyware products. Inspector Pete Little, of Dorset Police, said: “This type of hoax email can be very distressing for the victim.

“I would urge people to be wary of emails of this nature. “If you receive one, delete it and don’t download the attachment.”