Last-minute Christmas shoppers hitting the web for a quick fix are putting themselves at risk from cyber crooks according to a YouGov survey carried out by home phone provider Plusnet

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PANIC-BUYING Christmas shoppers are risking seasonal misery by ignoring basic precautions as they hunt for last-minute gifts on the  internet, according to a new survey.

Nearly one in 10 have had credit or debit card details stolen and 18 per cent have also lost money because goods ordered over the internet have not been delivered or arrived damaged with a no-returns policy.

The poll, released as millions of bargain-hungry Britons race to finish their festive shopping, found one third have never or rarely read the terms and conditions before  buying online.

A further 37 per cent have never or only sometimes looked for security measures including six per cent who have no idea what to look  for.

The YouGov survey, carried out for broadband and home phone provider Plusnet, highlighted the growing popularity of cyber shopping with 23  per cent having spent over £200 on a single online  purchase.

Plusnet products director Neil Armstrong said:  “Internet shopping is undergoing a boom - with up to £5bn being spent  every month - as it can save consumers money and time. It is simple to do and, with Christmas nearly here, millions are logging on for great deals or  final presents.

“However, this also means there is a big opportunity for cyber crooks to cash in so shoppers just need to be aware of some basic facts and simple precautions.”

Sixty three per cent of  respondents said they did look for security measures – such as the https: web address - when buying from websites and 33 per cent cited security as the main  factor when assessing which shopping site to use.

A quarter (26 per cent)  chose a reputable or well-known brand and 24 per cent opted for affordability  of products or cost savings.

Armstrong said: “Online shoppers  have definitely become more vigilant. However, the survey does underline that  there are still too many putting themselves at risk because they are not  taking simple precautions.

“Cyber criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated and determined in their methods. One way they can do this is to set up copycat shopping websites to obtain log-in details,  secret passwords and other personal details.

“They might  also fraudulently send you an email to persuade you to disclose personal  information. These scams are known as ‘phishing’, where the crooks try to hook  you by fishing for sensitive details.

He added: “However, it is important to emphasise the value and vast choice that the internet now  delivers to consumers. Computer users can avoid losing out if they follow  simple measures that exist to combat them.

Plusnet has issued the following five-point guide  to help people shop safely and securely during the seasonal period. 

PLUSNET’S FIVE STAY-SAFE RULES FOR ONLINE SHOPPING

1.   Only access online shopping sites by typing in a web address. Never use a link from an email

2.    Use secure online payment services like PayPal or WorldPay and only shop at reputable websites. Ensure the letters https are showing in the  browser window of the site, where the web address is shown, or look out for a locked padlock or key icon

3.   Keep your passwords and PINs safe. Be aware of unsolicited emails or calls asking you to disclose any  personal details or card numbers. Your bank would never ask you to disclose such details

4.   At an internet café? Don’t use the “remember my username or password” functions when using a public computer which others have access to, and never leave your computer unattended whilst logged in

5.   Make sure your computer is up to date with the  latest security protection,  anti-virus and firewall software. These are  often free to download and extra packages are also readily available. It’s  also important to download the latest software updates when alerted on screen.  Always check the privacy policy of any website which asks for personal  details. If the site is requesting such information and does not have a privacy policy, do not submit it