WEST Yorkshire Police are urging the public to be on its guard after a rise in the number of people falling victim to fraudulent emails and text messages.

Reports of phishing – where attackers attempt to trick people into clicking on links, through which they can then steal information and personal details – have increased.

“Never click on links you’re unsure about and always check first that the web address of the site you are visiting is the official one,” said a spokesman.

For further information and advice, visit westyorkshire.police.uk/advice/online-crime-safety/online-fraud/online-fraud. To report fraud, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.