Experts are predicting that today could be the busiest day of the year for online shopping as Christmas approaches. UK payments association APACS predicts that UK internet shoppers will spend more than £5 billion in December, with the number of adults shopping online having doubled in the last five years to nearly 30 million.

Director of communications, Sandra Quinn, said: “We reckon that Monday 3 December is likely to be one of the busiest online shopping days of the year. More and more of us are buying our Christmas presents online and the evidence suggests we like to do so about three weeks before the big day to ensure they are delivered on time.”

APACS recently revealed that total spending on cards, cash and cheques is expected to reach £53 billion in December, up 4.2 per cent compared with December 2006. Total spending on cards is expected to increase by almost ten per cent year-on-year, while card spending at online stores is likely to more than double from £3.6 billion in December 2006 to £5.6 billion this December, totalling more than £1 billion a week. And with many companies now offering cash back deals for the festive period, customers could actually stand to make money as they shop.

However, the association is concerned that people could be at risk of credit and debit card fraud if they do not take the necessary precautions while shopping online. It has launched a new website (www.shopsafeonline.org.uk) and published a consumer advice guide in order to help protect cardholders as people browse online stores.

“The internet allows us to take the stress out of Christmas shopping, but it’s important that people take steps to protect themselves,” said Ms Quinn. Concerned customers may find that obtaining a credit report could help them to keep an eye on accounts for any fraudulent transactions.

Compare broadband deals and find out more about cash back credit cards , identity fraud and obtaining a free credit report

© Fair Investment Company