RESIDENTS in Redditch were given important advice on staying safe online when officers from Warwickshire and West Mercia Police took to the streets their cyber van.

The ‘cyber mobile’ visited supermarkets, parks and other popular community hot spots and Safer Neighbourhood Team officers were on hand to talk to passers-by about cyber crime.

They also handed out leaflets, posters and mouse mats to help spread the safety messages.

PCSO Jon Duggins said: "There were lots of people out and about during the week and the cyber van certainly attracted their attention.

“They were keen to find out about the risks associated with cyber space and what they can do to protect themselves so they can stay safe in the virtual world."

DCI Sean Paley, from Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police specialist operations unit, said: "The internet is a fantastic resource which, when used safely and responsibly, brings huge benefits.

“While the positives should be celebrated, it is important that those going online are also aware of the risks so they do not fall victim."

In December 2014 Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police launched the #Be Cyber

Smart campaign to raise awareness of internet-related crime.

They gave a range of advice including to download the latest software and anti-virus updates, use complex passwords, delete suspicious emails before opening them and to never download something if you don’t know where it came from.

Traditional crime categories such as burglary, violence and robbery have seen a steady decrease in recent years whereas cyber crime continues to rise.

For more information visit www.westmercia.police.uk/becybersmart.

Anyone who believes they may be a victim of fraud should contact actionfraud.police.uk/report_fraud or call 0300 123 2040.