Online shoppers have been offered some tips on how to avoid identity theft when making purchases over the festive season.

According to Websense, consumers should not be tempted to buy from unfamiliar sites because they spot a bargain.

The company pointed out that fraudsters commonly create fake sites to attract shoppers. However, goods are never dispatched and credit card details are then sold on the black market.

"Tempting as some offers can be, unfortunately the old adage is often true, if they sound too good to be true they probably are," Websense stated.

Other top tips include installing anti-virus software on PCs and taking care when opening Christmas e-cards.

Research carried out recently on behalf of lifestyle assistance company CPP revealed that approximately 315,000 online shoppers will fall pray to fraudsters during the festive season.

The average amount likely to be stolen from each individual is £600.