TAVISTOCK Police have issued a warning to people in relation to incidents of criminal offences involving social media and text messaging. Sergeant Dave Anning said there has been an increase in the number of people being charged with a criminal offence under the Communications Act after posting offensive messages via social media sites or sending offensive text messages. He said: 'I have today authorised that yet another person be charged after some really offensive text messages and voice mails were sent. These sort of incidents, along with incidents involving social media such as Facebook and Twitter, are constantly getting people into trouble. 'If you fall out with someone and you want to "have a go" at them, be aware that sending messages, letters or photos will be a criminal offence if they are threatening or offensive. 'By their nature they leave an easily followed trail too. Think before you start typing — the person in this case will almost certainly lose their job once they are convicted. In this respect, it is a bit like drinking and driving — a few moments of foolishness can be very costly.'