Teenagers are being tricked and blackmailed into sending inappropriate images of themselves online.

A number of teenagers in Seaford, Newhaven and Peacehaven, mainly 13 to 17-year-old boys, have been approached on social media by someone posing as a 19 to 20-year-old woman.

The teenagers are being contacted by someone calling themselves Jenny Lane or jennylane1994, who claims to be from Essex but was moving to Brighton. This person then requested or shared inappropriate images with them. Police say the activity could have been going on since May.

DC Steve Shimmons, who is leading the investigation, said: "This person has used an array of social media, including Facebook and Skype, to contact teenagers and has sent out more than 100 friend requests. So far 10 young people have come forward to say they have been contacted; two of them reporting that they were threatened with having images posted online if they did not send further inappropriate images.

"We are keen to speak to anyone who has been contacted on social media by someone purporting to be Jenny Lane. If you have been approached but haven't yet spoken to us, please contact us.

"We understand that it may be difficult to come forward but we can assure you that you will be supported and your report will be treated sensitively. This is a serious offence that we believe has impacted on a large number of people.

"We are liaising closely with local schools which are aware and are supporting the investigation. If you have been contacted or have any information please talk to a teacher or contact police on 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting Operation Insight or serial 1218 09/08."

A 29-year-old man from Newhaven was arrested on October 6 on suspicion of possessing indecent images and blackmail. He has been bailed until April 5 while investigations continue.