Police in Scotland have warned children and parents about the dangers of the Momo challenge, which allegedly encourages self-harm.

Schools across the country have also sent out warnings urging parents not to panic about the game.

A woman with bulging eyes and a twisted smile reportedly pops up and sends young people images and instructions on how to harm themselves and others.

The haunting image appears in the middle of innocent YouTube videos popular with youngsters.

Police are now warning parents to sit down with their children and talk them through the dangers.

A spokesman said: "Across Scotland there has been some concern about the Momo challenge appearing across social media channels.

"The character attempts to torment and horrify the young people who watch it and has been circulating the internet for a number of years.

"Parents will naturally be concerned but we would urge you to not panic and simply take this as a chance to re-educate any young person you know about the dangers of staying safe online."

The female character encourages people to message it through WhatsApp where it sends worrying instructions.

The game has been linked to a number of deaths in Argentina, Colombia and India.

Chief Inspector Scott Tees added: "The existence of online challenges such as Momo are clearly a matter for concern for parents, however these type of so-called challenges appear every few months on the internet and we have certainly seen countless other examples over the years.

"We would encourage parents not to panic but instead sit down with their children and talk about all aspects of their online world and explain the potential dangers.

"You can also always block or report users and videos on social networking sites if you do come across the image and are concerned."

The sculpture was initially thought to be created by Japanese artist Midori Hayashi who is known for making bizarre dolls using different animal parts.

The artist is not associated with the Momo challenge and the original work was never meant to be a part of the sinister game it is being used for now.

Schools including Milngavie Primary School in East Dunbartonshire have also issued a warning, urging children not to accept an invitation to play the game.

In a letter to parents, head teacher Garry Graham said: "I encourage you to monitor your children's social media to look out for the dangerous site called the Momo challenge.

"Please use this as an opportunity to remind your children not to accept any invitation to play from an unknown number and not to click on unidentified links.

"The Momo challenge can be found on WhatsApp and on Facebook.

"Sadly, some tasks have even led to young people in parts of the world, such as Argentina, committing suicide.

"As we become aware of any concerning sites we will advise you but these often come on stream at such an alarming rate that it is hard to keep abreast of them."