A RUBERY man lost £20,000 after falling victim to an elaborate internet-based scam.

He was contacted via telephone earlier this year and asked to invest in an offshore company.

After numerous phone calls the man, who has not been named, was encouraged to invest and given details of a website to find out more about the company.

He looked at the website, www.lynxcommodities.com, and associated linked websites apparently testifying to the genuine nature of the company.

In early September he transferred the money from his UK bank account to a Hong Kong-based holding bank.

However, the man has subsequently discovered that all phone numbers which he previously used to contact the company and its representatives no longer work and the websites have been closed down.

Police Constable Nick Ferguson, of Rubery police, said: "We would advise anyone who is considering investing money in any company to do so only after thorough research and investigation to establish who they are dealing with.

"Sending money to foreign destinations is not something which should be done without ensuring the recipient is genuine and trustworthy.

"On this occasion the victim has been subjected to an elaborate and highly organised scam.

"An official looking website is no guarantee that the person at the other end is who they claim, and great care should be taken before divulging personal information and bank details."