Concern over the continued rise of sextortion cases in Midlothian has led police to change their top priority for the county to include the digital world.
Local area commander James Robertson says protecting vulnerable people from cyber criminals is now part of the force's number one aim in Midlothian.
He told a meeting of Midlothian Police, Fire and Rescue Board that concern about the blackmailers who targeted people online was included in the local policing plan which is currently out for public consultation.
