Spammers are exploiting the death of Pope John Paul II in an effort to sell a get-rich-quick scheme.

The emails purport to offer a free collection of books by the former leader of the Catholic church, and invite users to click on a link to receive their copies. The link leads to a site advertising a get-rich-quick book.

"The Pope's death has been mourned by millions around the world, yet for the spammers it's just another opportunity to sell their unwanted wares," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos.

"Spammers are prepared to plumb the depths in their attempt to get internet users to buy their goods or services. Everyone should defend their email systems with industrial strength anti-spam software, and follow best practice advice to minimise the nuisance of spam."

Cluley explained that the same group of spammers is thought to have been behind a rash of spam in February that claimed to link to the new Harry Potter book.