Consumers urged to shop smart when bargain hunting

Bargain hunters have been boosted with some top tips on how to stay safe when buying products online in the run-up to Christmas.

The advice from PayPal urges consumers to exercise caution when using their credit card online and to only buy from a trusted website.

Figures show that more than 27 million people in Britain will be doing their Christmas shopping online this year, turning to the internet in search of a good deal.

Garreth Griffith, head of risk and security at PayPal, said: "Shoppers will be able to get some great bargains online this Christmas but there is no need to sacrifice security in the hunt for a great deal."

Top tips for consumers wishing to buy online include making sure the site is legitimate, using the latest browsers such as Internet Explorer 7 or 8, ensuring computers are secure and using reasonable judgment.

Credit card spending has become even safer this year after a new Lending Code was launched by the Lending Standards Board which sets out rules which lenders must follow when issuing credit.