A vicious new scam that threatens people's lives unless they pay a 'ransom' has reached Geelong.

The message, which has been reported around Australia, is received by text message or email and tells the recipient that they have been targetted for death.

But it says their lives will be spared if they pay up.

Typically the message reads, "Someone paid me to kill you. If you want me to spare you, you have two days to pay $5000. If you inform the police or anybody you will die. I am monitoring you."

The message and the amount involved differ, and the message is sometimes broken up into smaller texts. In some cases it asks for information such as bank account numbers.

Several people have contacted our newsroom to say they have received the message via their mobile phones or email accounts.

While some recognised it as a con, others say they were terrified for their lives and those of their loved ones.

The message gives the appearance of coming from an international or blocked number.

The scammers also include payment details and an email address.

The Australian government's Scamwatch website says recipients should ignore and delete the message, and under no circumstances should personal information be handed over.

Scamwatch has a facility to report scams and also has a telephone hotline.

The Scamwatch page can be found by clicking here.

Scamwatch says anyone with genuine concerns for their safety should contact police.