Internet thieves are preparing to target Nottingham shoppers as they head online to buy Christmas presents.
Figures released by Notts Police show last Christmas people in Nottinghamshire lost £136,981 to online fraudsters.
Shoppers were typically targeted on Black Friday and Cyber Monday – two online shopping days when retailers reduce prices and extend sales.
Police are warning those looking for an online bargain to be extra vigilant when making purchases.
Mobile phones sales are the most common targets, but fraudsters also lure victims with promises of cheap clothing, watches, furniture and games consoles.
Nationally, victims of online crime lost 42 per cent more money last year than in 2013.
Fraudsters are relentless and will stop at nothing
Nottinghamshire Police will be giving tips on staying safe online over the next ten days on their social media feeds.
Commander Chris Greany, Police National Coordinator for Economic Crime, said: “This Christmas we want everyone to think about their online activity, especially when they are about to buy something over the internet.
“Fraudsters and online criminals are relentless and will stop at nothing, giving absolutely no thought to whether you and your family are left without presents at Christmas time.”
Sam Hancock, Crime Prevention Manager at Notts Police, added: “It never fails to surprise me how cruel and shameless online criminals can be over the festive season, working as hard as they can to con people out of their presents.”
If you think you have been a victim of fraud, call police on 101 or visit the Action Fraud website.
