SIX STEPS TO SAFER SHOPPING ONLINE

LOOK for the card issuer’s pop-up screen when making an online purchase. If it is missing, then alarm bells should ring.

DELETE any email requests to sign up to a verification scheme. Instead, contact your card provider direct.

CHECK you have up-to-date security software installed on your computer – some banks offer this for free.

WATCH out for spelling mistakes on websites and unusual website addresses. They might be a sign of fraud.

COMPLETE a purchase only if the website is secure. Look in the browser for https – the ‘s’ stands for secure – and ensure a locked padlock or unbroken key symbol is showing.

FIND more information at getsafeonline.org.