A MAN has been messaging an elderly woman on Facebook and asked for money from iTunes vouchers.

The elderly lady from Welland in Malvern became friends with the man on Facebook, who then informed the woman he served in the army and was currently based abroad.

The man asked for money in the form of iTunes vouchers to get a flight to visit the female.

A West Mercia Police spokesman said: "This is a very common type of fraud that is being used at present, where the victim is befriended and encouraged to send them money.

"We advise that you should never send money to persons that you do not know.

"Also to be careful with who you befriend via social media, always make sure that know the person before giving them intimate details of your life.

"If anyone has experienced such incidents or are concerned with a family member or friend whom may be sending money abroad please call 101 or report via Action Fraud."