Police forces in different parts of Canada are alerting people to prank phone calls connected to the upcoming release of horror movie Saw V.

Authorities in Ontario and Halifax said they are receiving complaints from citizens who have been the target of frightening prank calls used to promote the movie, the fifth installment in the extreme torture-and-gore film series.

An interactive website allows users to enter a person's name to generate a scary message that can be sent to any home phone number.

"Hello, I want to play a game," one message said. "In a few seconds you will have an opportunity to plead for the life of your friend. Think hard, every word counts. His life is in your hands. Let the game begin."

The message, however, has caused concern for people who don't know the basis of the movie, said Ontario Provincial Police Const. Tracey Bednarczyk.

"We just want to make the community aware that this is out there, [that] people are doing it as a prank thing and not to be concerned."

RCMP in Halifax issued a similar warning after three Nova Scotians called to complain about the calls.

Saw V, which was filmed in Toronto, is scheduled for release on Oct. 24.

With files from the Canadian Press