The Vancouver Police Department warned residents this week of an email scam circulating throughout the community.
Residents have received emails claiming the sender can view the recipient's computer files and camera through installed malware. The email threatens to harm the recipient's reputation, according to a police statement.
The department said the email works to extort people for Bitcoin, a popular virtual currency.
Police caution the public not to follow the instructions in the email or click links sending any form of payment. The department also encourages recipients to notify local authorities if they receive this form of email scam.