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Consumers afraid of shopping due to internet security fears

Online security concerns and fears of ID theft are dissuading consumers from shopping online, according to the Findings from Consumer surveys on Internet Shopping report from the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).

Some 30 per cent of those afraid of shopping online said it was because they did not trust the platform, while 20 per cent revealed fears over their personal security were the main deterrent.

As a result of the findings, which also shows that even those participating are still concerned, the OFT has said it is to update information on its web pages to offer small firms advice on internet security.

OFT chief executive John Fingleton said: "Online retailing is the future for many businesses and is increasingly important to the economy.

"If consumers are not confident online, demand will grow at a slower rate. So, we must tackle these concerns right now if the online market is to grow at its full potential."

Internet payment system ClickandBuy recently stated that the financial risks associated with shopping online are a concern for 83 per cent of UK adults, who are afraid their details may fall in the wrong hands.

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