POLICE are using Bluetooth technology and social networking site Facebook to help students avoid being victims of crime.

Crime prevention messages are being transmitted to students at Staffordshire University using the new technology.

PC Keith Emery, police liaison officer for Staffordshire University, said: "Students do get targeted by criminals, not just here but nationally. They tend to have a lot of electrical items like mobile phones, laptops, cameras and MP3 players, so it makes them a bit more vulnerable.

"Of the burglaries committed in student accommodation, most are down to students leaving their windows and doors open rather than forced entry, so we want to remind them to keep their valuables secure."

There have also been a number of thefts in the university's library as a result of students leaving their personal belongings unattended.

PC Emery said: "Over the winter period, we advise them to take all their valuables home and dispose of rubbish carefully after they have been Christmas shopping.

"They should secure their doors and windows and keep their personal belongings with them at all times.

"It's similar advice to what we would give the community in general, but we are now targeting them in a different way with methods like Bluetooth, email and Facebook."

Bluetooth software allows devices such as mobile phones, laptops, PCs, printers, digital cameras and video game consoles to be connected via short-range radio frequencies.

A transmitting device has been installed in the Ember Lounge student venue on College Road in Shelton, which can send messages to students' mobile phones if they have their Bluetooth enabled.

PC Emery has also set up page on Facebook which students can link to as a "friend".