Residents were today warned to ignore a text message allegedly circulated by Nokia promising prizes to the recipient.

Hundreds of residents have complained to police in the past several days about the mobile promotion, which claims to be part of Nokia's 144th anniversary celebrations.

Police today advised residents to be “extremely cautious” about such messages.

Said a spokesman: “It is difficult for Police to investigate these types of text messages as the suspects use pre-paid cell phones which cannot be traced and they use free online e-mail addresses such as hotmail and gmail which can be created in any name.

“These text messages are sent out by the thousands and the culprits simply download telephone numbers from online telephone directories; in other words those receiving the text message have not been individually targeted by the scammers. Advanced fee scams involve the victims sending money in order to obtain fictitious awards or inheritance.

“Once again, members of the public are advised to be extremely cautious when sending funds to persons who have contacted them unexpectedly, especially via text message or to persons whose identity cannot be properly established.”