Sutton police are concerned for people’s safety on free online dating sites.

They are urging people to think about their safety after a man allegedly harassed a young woman via social media including Facebook after they linked up though an online dating agency.

Detective Sergeant Gary Welsh, of Sutton CID, said: “It is clear that there are dating websites where there is a lack of checks in place on new clients. Checks should capture identification or credit cards details but these are not always required in order to sign up for the service.”

He added: “Whilst the majority of clients are unlikely to have ulterior or dubious motives for using dating sites, it could still be something of a refuge for potential sex offenders to carry out their criminality undetected.”

Police are advising people to tell a friend where they are going, ensure their mobile phone is always charged, to be assertive and confident and to avoid short cuts along alleyways.