CYBER-CRIME specialists have urged residents to stay safe online during the festive season.

Dorset Police cyber-crime prevention officer Jake Moore said many will have received new devices for Christmas, but warned of the dangers online.

"Enjoy your new gadgets this Christmas but please make sure you keep them safe," he said.

"The ‘boring bits’ like loading anti-virus software and setting up strong passwords are the things that will keep your new devices secure.

"Work with your children to make sure their new devices are set up securely, they are using them safely online, and know how to spot issues or dangers online.

"If you are shopping online in the Christmas sales please do all you can to make sure you are using an authentic website. Check payment pages are secure and always pay on a credit card if you can – it offers you another level of protection."

Those with new gadgets are urged to check passwords are secure, keep devices updated, back up files and watch out for bogus courier emails.