By Aneeka Simonis

POLICE have warned Pakenham residents of “extremely harmful” USBs reportedly being planted in residential mailboxes.

An urgent safety warning was issued by Victoria Police on Wednesday 20 September, advising anyone who finds a USB flash drive in their mailbox to avoid plugging it into their computer.

Police understand a number of Pakenham residents found unmarked USB drives in their mailbox last week.

Those who inserted the USB into their computer found it loaded fraudulent media streaming service offers onto their computer, as well as giving rise to a number of other serious issues.

Police did not provide specifics, but described the corrupt devices as being extremely harmful.

Members of the public are urged to avoid plugging them into their computers or other devices.

Anyone with information about those behind the scam is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.