Safety warning over PokemonGo ahead of UK release

A leading children's charity has called for security features of PokemonGo to be reassessed before the app is released in the UK.

The NSPCC have said it is concerned that "basic safety standards appear to have been overlooked".

The mobile gaming phenomenon has emerged as a global craze after its stunning success in the US, Australia and New Zealand.

In the game, players travel around the real world to capture and train creatures known as Pokemon.

Its success has sent Nintendo's share price rocketing, but the game has sparked concern over issues ranging from anti-social behaviour to crime.

The NSPCC is concerned that offenders could target unsuspecting children by using the app's geolocation feature.

Peter Wanless, the charity's chief executive, has written to its developer Niantic, and said: "I urge you to urgently reassess your app and its security and safety features.

"We all have a responsibility to ensure that children are protected and as creators of a game with substantive reach, you have a weighty responsibility to protect your young users."

It comes after a number of crimes were linked to the game while others complained users were overrunning areas highlighted as hotspots to gain new characters of power up levels.

Three people have been charged with robbery after apparently using Pokestops - areas where users can grab items - as a bait to attract victims.

Meanwhile the Auswitz museum has asked users to stop playing at the site of the former death camp, saying it was "disrespectful on many levels".

There have also been safety concerns over people playing the game while driving. Two teenagers have been fined for PokemanGo while at the wheel near pedestrians in Australia, police said.

Meanwhile businesses listed as 'gyms' have complained they are being overrun with huge numbers of players.

The UK release date for PokemonGo has not yet been confirmed.