But if you're not careful there are traps on the internet, where things aren't all they seem. Here's our top tips for a fraud-free Christmas
1. Choose carefully where you shop
It's worth doing some research on online retailers to check they're legitimate. Read feedback from people or organisations that you trust, such as consumer websites.
2. Use a credit card for online payments
Use a credit card when shopping online, if you have one. Most major credit card providers protect online purchases, and are obliged to refund you in certain circumstances. Using a credit card (rather than a debit card) also means that if your payment details are stolen, your main bank account won’t be directly affected.
3. Only provide enough details to complete your purchase
You should only fill in the mandatory details on a website when making a purchase. These are usually marked with an asterisk (*), and will typically include your delivery address and payment details. You shouldn't have to provide security details (such as your mother's maiden name, or the name of your first pet) to complete your purchase.
4. Keep your accounts secure
If you're using the same password for your online accounts (or using passwords that could be easily guessed), then you're at risk. Hackers could steal your password from one account, and use it to access your other accounts. For this reason, you should make sure that your really important accounts (such as your email account, social media accounts, banking accounts, shopping accounts and payment accounts like PayPal) are protected by strong passwords that you don't use anywhere else.
5. Watch out for suspicious emails, calls and text messages
You'll probably receive many messages from online stores, as a result of 'opting in' to receiving communications from them. Lurking amongst these genuine messages, there may well be fake ones (containing links designed to steal your money and personal details) that can be very difficult to spot.
6. If things go wrong
If you think your credit or debit card has been used by someone else, let your bank know straight away so they can block anyone using it. Always contact your bank using the official website or phone number. Don't use the links or contact details in the message you have been sent or given over the phone.