POLICE have warned the public against revealing personal details on social networking sites.

Officers said cyber-criminals use such sites to piece together identities and stressed: "What goes online stays online."

Superintendent Mark Callaghan said Facebook, Skype, Twitter and online dating sites are good ways to keep in touch with family and friends but can also be targeted by criminals.

He said: "Many of us enjoy sharing the details of our lives with our online friends, but do you really know who you are communicating with and who can see your posts?

"Make sure your privacy settings are set to the highest level so that only your friends can see your details.

"Posting details and photographs of your summer holidays while you are away may seem innocent enough, but to a burglar you have just advertised you have an empty house.

"Be wary about who you invite or accept invitations from on social networking sites and internet telephone services. Do not accept friendship requests from complete strangers. You would not do this in real life."

Posting personal information such as phone numbers, pictures of your home, workplace or school or your birthday is not recommended because it could help criminals to steal your identity.

Supt Callaghan also warned against publishing pictures that might cause you or someone else embarrassment and could lead to revenge porn or extortion.

Dorset Police is encouraging everyone to visit GetSafeOnline and cybersafe.dorset.police.uk for help and advice on online safety.

If intimate photos or videos of you are posted online against your will report it to Dorset Police by calling 101.