Scammers have been targeting men across the borough in an online blackmail scam.

Two men from Watford including a 25-year-old, a 21-year-old from Croxley Green, a 25-year-old from Rickmansworth, and a 18-year-old from Radlett have all been the victims of the scam where they have been coaxed by an unknown person to carry out explicit acts and then blackmailed.

Police have received more than 20 reports of men across the county becoming victims of this scam.

The men, whose ages range between 17 and 36, are contacted by a "young attractive woman" via social media - in most cases this is facebook, and encouraged to have a conversation with them over Skype - an online video chat service.

The woman encourages the victim to perform a sexual act for her to view.

After the online chat, the victim is contacted by the woman, who demands money.

She tells them that she has videoed the event and will post it to their friends and family via social media, unless they pay her.

In some cases money has been given to the woman in region of £500.

Detective Inspector John Hazeldine said: "This is a scam which we believe is taking place across the country, and not confined to Hertfordshire.

"However, it is important that young men are made aware that this is taking place so they do not fall victim.

"I'd urge anyone faced with a similar approach, not to engage in such activity."