Facebook fraudsters are creating fake social media profiles and befriending children online, Cheshire police have warned.
The constabulary say they have received a number of reports of Facebook profiles being created by individuals who are pretending to be a young person and making friends with children online.
Police say it is vitally important that all young people and their guardians know to be absolutely sure that they know who they are making friends with on social media.
A police spokesperson said the crooks are firstly establishing a 'friendship' or connection with a young person through Facebook and then sending them sexually explicit images through the messenger services.
"It is children who are seeing these images and I urge parents and carers to pay close attention to their child’s use of social media and provide them with advice and guidance to ensure they remain safe online," the spokesperson warned.
"Sharing our personal lives with friends and loved ones on social media can be fun and rewarding. However, if we don’t pay attention to the security of our social media profiles, it allows strangers to also have the exact same access.
"This is a criminal offence and any such reported incidents will be investigated."
If you or anyone you know has been a victim of inappropriate messages received online, contact Cheshire police on 101. Information can also be passed on anonymously via Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
