A third of students arriving in Oxford for the start of term could fall victim to crime, police have warned.

They will be speaking to as many newcomers as possible to give out advice on how to keep out of trouble.

More than 5,000 new students are expected to arrive at Oxford University and Oxford Brookes University by the end of the month.

Most crimes committed against students are muggings, car crime and burglary, although incidents of assault, Internet and credit card fraud are also on the rise, police warned.

Police figures show one in three students became victims of crime in 2006.

Oxford's crime reduction officer Graham Milne said: "Students are vital to the health of our city centre, both during the day and at night.

"Many are experiencing a new life in a new part of the country and I want to see them enjoy themselves.

"But it's an unfortunate fact that many become victims of crime during their time at university.

"Some are victims of bad luck, others are naive and some are targeted by criminals after drinking too much.

"I don't want to stop anyone drinking during an evening out, but I want to minimise the risks students take by making them aware of what they can do to keep themselves and their property as safe as possible."

Last year, Oxford suffered a rise in burglaries which was blamed on thieves targeting student shared accommodation, particularly in East Oxford.

Officers have also been working in student halls of residence to prevent breakins.

Thames Valley Police is also co-ordinating an alcohol awareness campaign with NHS South Central to warn students about sexual health and other health issues at freshers' fairs.

Oxford University Student Union president Martin McClusky said: "There is a lot of petty theft, things like laptops being taken. Talks like this to freshers prove fairly useful."

Jason Manning, vice-president of Oxford Brookes Students Union, added: "The union provides free attack alarms for all students.

"The union also runs the safety bus, which is a volunteer-run scheme to ensure students have a safe and affordable way of getting home on demand."

The five point safety plan issued by police warns students to: Avoid travelling alone at night Use student bus services or taxis to get home Never leave valuable items such as computers, mobile phones or iPods on show Make sure all external windows and doors have locks Alternate alcoholic and soft drinks on a night out.