An Garda Síochána has issued a warning to consumers and businesses as part of a Europe-wide campaign by Europol to promote safe online shopping during the Christmas season.

In the period from January 1, 2020, until October 31, 2020, 489 online shopping frauds have been reported to An Garda Síochána.

The business community are frequently targeted by fraudsters using stolen or compromised credit cards, bank accounts or payments, in what is called Card Not Present Fraud.

Businesses who are victims of this fraud will suffer losses under the ‘charge back’ process.

In the first 10 months of 2020, 346 Card Not Present Frauds have been reported to An Garda Síochána in Ireland 2020 to date, representing an average loss of €1,083 or a total of €374,751.

“As we enter this busy season, consumers and businesses will be particularly active online and An Garda Síochána and Europol advise consumers to follow the golden rules for online shopping,” the authority added.

Continuing, An Garda Síochána said: “Businesses are warned to protect their sales and revenues by identifying risks: know their product; know their customers; utilise safe means of payment; and use reliable delivery methods.

“Consumers and businesses must protect their personal data during transactions other than the normal data required to complete a transaction. This site provides advice on all aspects of online shopping,” the Garda statement concluded.