This is caused by an abnormal disconnection while downloading new emails from our server. Typically this only happens with dialup, when your dialup connection drops while you are checking for new email. It can also happen with mobile devices such as Blackberry.
The mailbox lock should disappear within an hour; if not, give us a call and we can reset your mailbox. Avoid disconnecting your Internet while downloading your emails. For mobile devices, you may have better luck using the IMAP protocol which does not cause the mailbox to be locked.