As one of the biggest online shopping days of the year approaches, we are offering advice about staying safe online.

On November 23 people across the UK will log on in an attempt to make savings on a whole range of items as part of the ‘Black Friday’ shopping day .

Yet with so much personal data and bank details being entered online, this time of year can make it rich pickings for cyber criminals.

Top tips to avoid falling victim include:

Be wary of any items which seem too much of a bargain. They could well be of poor quality, not as described or even non-existent.
Make sure you purchase from reputable retailers and authentic websites.
Where possible pay using a credit card as this can give you valuable legal protection
Make sure the website is secure before you enter your personal or payment details: look for the padlock icon in the browser and ensure that the web address starts with https.
Consider where purchases will be delivered to – don’t ask for parcels to be left on doorsteps, in porches or behind bins
Remember financial institutions will never ask for your online banking details by email or telephone, nor ask you to divulge your PIN.
Dispose of packaging for high value items carefully – empty boxes left outside advertise what you have inside your home.

For more information and advice about staying safe online this Christmas visit:https://www.getsafeonline.org/christmas/

To report an incident to police call 101. In an emergency always call 999.

For regular updates about staying safe online follow our Cyber safety Twitter page: @SWPCyber.