Consumers warned of festive fraud

Wed 28 Nov 2007 2pm

With the number of people going online to do their Christmas shopping increasing, an industry group has advised consumers to be extra careful with their personal details.

Callcredit warned Britons that a record-breaking festive period for internet shopping could also see the highest ever level of identity fraud unless people take steps to protect themselves.

While admitting that it is "impossible" to be "100 per cent safe" from identity theft, the credit reference agency urged online shoppers to use a virus-protected computer and only visit secure websites.

"Unless consumers start to take some preventative steps, the consequences could be very damaging," said Callcredit's fraud expert Owen Roberts.

"If you were shopping on the high street you wouldn't leave your wallet open and we advise that you don't do the same online," he added.

According to statistics from Credit Action, about 27 million people are expected to buy Christmas presents online this year, representing an increase of seven million on 2006.

Experian released a report in 2006 which stated that one in four consumers have fallen victim to identity fraud in the UK.

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