The National Hi-Tech Crime Unit has revamped its website which will now act as a focal point for combating online crime.

As serious organised hi-tech crime increasingly hits the general public, the website now has a section specifically designed to meet their needs. It explains what is considered a hi-tech crime and provides a facility where the public can report content regarding, websites, e-mails, newsgroups and other on-line content they may consider might be illegal.

There is a step-by-step guide on how to complete the form correctly and users have the option to report anonymously or to provide their details.

As these crimes are increasingly global in nature, the site also explains how internationally based crimes will be handled. It also provides links to a range of agencies that deal with hi-tech crime both here in the UK and abroad.

Commenting on the launch, Detective Superintendent Mick Deats, Deputy Head of the Unit said: "Hi-tech crime has become a rapidly growing phenomenon over recent years. Computers, in particular the internet, provide great benefits for society.

"However, there is real evidence and a continued threat that criminals will exploit these mediums, turning a tool designed to benefit society into a tool to help them commit crime.

"This new website is designed to help people understand the issues of hi-tech crime and provide pointers to further information."

Consumers can log on to the website here here