Identity fraud: Five things you need to know to avoid becoming a victim

There is a double danger facing online shoppers, warn the fraud prevention experts Cifas

Avoid using public wi-fi for online shopping, as it can be hacked or mimicked by fraudsters Corbis

What are the chances of me becoming a victim?

If you're tempted to shop online for a bargain because of retail events such as Cyber Monday, the chances are quite high.

Really, even though I'm quite sensible?

You'd be surprised by how many sensible people are so blinded by thoughts of snapping up a bargain that they make an expensive mistake. There were 129,168 identity fraud victims between July 2014 and June 2015. A typical fraudster trick is to claim that an offer is only available for a short time, to encourage unsuspecting buyers into unwise shopping.

What kind of unwise shopping is there?

There is a double danger facing online shoppers, warn the fraud prevention experts Cifas. First are the high number of convincing looking but fake shopping websites, and dodgy emails offering deals. If you fall for their tricks, you will hand over cash that you will never see again. But that won't be the end of your problems. The scammers behind the sites are often looking to harvest personal details using malware that asks people to enter their own personal and banking details, which they then use to sell on or commit identity fraud. If you fall victim to that, you probably won't find out about it until a bill arrives for something you did not buy.

What should I do?

You can reduce the chances of becoming a fraud victim by installing security software on electronic devices, by not responding to unsolicited phone calls and emails, and by creating strong personal passwords. The advice site MoneySavingExpert.com has a recommended list of the best free anti-virus software at moneysavingexpert.com/shopping/free-anti-virus-software.

Also avoid using public wi-fi for online shopping, as it can be hacked or mimicked by fraudsters.

What if I become a victim?

Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. That could ultimately help stop others falling for the same scam.