Santa Blair's online safety tips

The government will today kick-off a Christmas campaign designed to persuade consumers that online shopping is safe.

Fronted by Birds of a Feather actress Linda Robson, the festive campaign highlights the fact that credit card firms have to refund consumers for fraudulent transactions.

A MORI survey, released to back the campaign, claims that 26 per cent of UK citizens - around 12 million people - have purchased online in the last 12 months.

But the survey found that almost 50 per cent of users are still concerned about online credit card fraud.

Actual victims of fraud are still few and far between, with 44 per cent saying they had heard rumours or read press reports about online dangers - but only three per cent said they actually experienced credit card crime.

To help keep you safe online, here are the government's five top tips for a safe festive shopping spree:

- Payment: In the EU, the card company must refund you if your credit card or debit card is used fraudulently.
- Websites: Use ones you know or which are recommended - or look for the TrustUK logo. Get the supplier's phone number and postal address.
- Records: Keep a copy of what you've ordered, plus the supplier's confirmation message.
- Quality: Your high street rights apply online: see www.consumer.gov.uk
- Cooling off: In many cases the EU the law lets you change you mind and get a refund within seven working days of the delivery.

James Roper, chief executive of the interactive Media in Retail Group (IMRG), welcomed the launch.

He said: "Consumer confidence is, and remains the biggest issue for online shopping."

The message will be spread on the government's consumer gateway and through leaflets at any Citizens' Advice Bureaux, libraries and local authorities.

Will the DTI's top tips help you wrap up safe this winter or just make you cry into your mulled wine? We'd like to hear your views on whether the e-minister and his team have got it right... editorial@silicon.com