Police officers in Pembrokeshire are investigating two recent cases of internet fraud. These types of fraud used to be called 'Nigerian letters' because they came by mail, but now these messages also come by phone, fax, or more increasingly e-mail.

"The purpose of these scams is to get money out of your bank account, not to put money into it and once a victim is on the hook, it is very difficult to get off," said a police spokesperson.

"Victims will be asked for a never-ending series of payments for 'transfer fees', 'legal expenses' and other bogus costs. It would also appear that these criminals are increasingly using on-line discussion groups and chat rooms to lure people into their schemes.

"We would therefore urge people to take heed of the following advice before replying to any e-mail, letter, text message or 'phone call promising 'easy money':

• Don't invest in anything based on appearances. Just because an individual or company has a flashy web site doesn't mean it is legitimate. Web sites can be created in just a few days. After a short period of taking money, a site can vanish without a trace.

• Don't invest in anything you are not absolutely sure about. Do your homework on the investment to ensure that it is legitimate.

• Do your homework on the individual or company to ensure that they are legitimate.

• Check out other web sites regarding this person/company.

• Don't judge a person/company by their web site.

• Be cautious when responding to special investment offers (especially through unsolicited e-mail).

• Be cautious when dealing with individuals/companies from outside your own country.

• Inquire about all the terms and conditions.

• If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.

• Be sceptical of individuals representing themselves as Nigerian or foreign government officials asking for your help in placing large sums of money in overseas bank accounts.

• Do not believe the promise of large sums of money for your cooperation.

• Guard your account information carefully.

"We would also urge staff working in banks, building societies, post offices and travel agencies throughout the county to be alert to the possibility of elderly people wishing to withdraw or transfer large sums of money - they may be being conned by fraudsters or bogus workmen," concluded the spokesperson.