West Dunbartonshire Police have shared advice to help members of the public protect themselves against ‘romance fraud’.

According to Police Scotland, romance fraud is a rising trend, in which offenders use dating websites and social media platforms to get into relationships with potential victims in order to exploit their trust through different means.

The advice police are sharing is to be wary of new relationships and always remember not to divulge any personal information to people you have not met.

The move forms part of the Police Scotland ‘Stay Safe Online’ campaign. More information can be found at www.scotland.police.uk/whats-happening/campaigns/2014/stay-safe-online