Mr Martin said the popularity of online chat rooms and social networking sites had the potential to expose young people to threatening and dangerous situations.

“Teenagers are very tech savvy, using mobile phones, internet chat rooms and social networking sites to keep in touch with their friends and meet people.

“But many young people just don’t realise how easily that technology can be used by bullies and criminals to threaten them, embarrass them or cause them harm.

Mr Martin said the NSW Police Force is tackling the issue of cyber-bullying through its School Liaison Program, with more than 4000 school visits in the past year.

Cyber crime is the use of computers and other electronic communications such as mobile phones, to commit traditional crimes such as stalking and intimidation.

“Recent research conducted by the Child Health Promotion Research Centre in WA suggested that up to 15 per cent of 10 to 14 year olds have experienced cyber-bullying.

“The workshops conducted by our School Liaison Police are designed to provide young people with information about cyber crime and what they can do to protect themselves.

“It’s important that young people are able to recognise cyber crime and realise that it’s a real crime with real consequences.

“Bullying, especially online bullying, has the potential to lead to serious crimes.

“It’s important that young people feel comfortable enough to talk to their friends, parents, teachers or police if they are uncomfortable with something they have seen, or something someone has said to them online,” Mr Martin said.