A NEW way for people to report fraud or internet crime has been launched will help identify hidden trends and bust networks of criminals, claim police.

Action Fraud can be contacted 24-hours a day via a website www.actionfraud.police.uk

Police suggest the new national system will also free up more officers to work on investigations.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Fell said: "This central point of information will enable us to identify seemingly unrelated incidents, trends and ultimately solve crimes and identify networks of criminals.

"We want to make it easy as possible for people to report crimes and we don't want fraudsters to get away with it.

“Even if you don't lose money, it is important that you report it to Action Fraud - Your information can help to root out fraudsters and prevent future attacks."

Action Fraud’s dedicated phone line is 0300 123 2040, available during office hours.