Scotland's largest police force has turned to the internet in an attempt to reach young people and warn them against drug rape.

A new feature on Strathclyde Police's website provides information on how to avoid becoming a victim, on drugs and their effects and advice on what to do if an attack occurs.

The force has chosen to put the campaign online because its website had proven to be an effective way of reaching young people, a spokeswoman said.

She estimated that the website gets about 500,000 hits each month.

The most common way a drug rape occurs is when a drug is slipped into the victim's drink, which then incapacitates or disorientates them. Most cases occur in pubs and clubs.

However, police warn that other settings, such as homes, hotels, house parties, university campuses and offices have all been the scene for drug rape assaults.

'Increasing concern'

Althought reported drug rapes within the Strathclyde area are few, evidence from external organisations and other police forces suggest the problem may be larger.

The website feature "Drug rape - watch what you drink " was launched on Wednesday by Chief Superintendent Barry Dougall.

"There has been increasing public concern surrounding the use of drugs to commit sexual assault," he said.

"The introduction of the drug rape section to our website should help to raise public awareness on the subject whilst also giving practical advice on how to prevent becoming a victim in the first place."

Drug rape facts:

• In more than 50% of drug rape cases the drug was administered through alcohol

• 70% of attackers were known to their victims in some way

• 12% of known victims have been male.

Police are warning people to be especially cautious on nights out over the Christmas and New Year period.

They advise party goers not to share or exchange drinks, not to leave drinks unattended and never to accept a drink from a stranger.