POLICE have shared advice to ensure shoppers stay safe when buying online.

Many retailers begin their sales on Boxing Day and more people than ever are choosing to shop online rather than bracing the cold weather and crowds on the high street.

Here are some top tips from police for staying safe when loading up your online shopping cart.

Be picky where you shop – Always research the retailer, ensuring that the website is legitimate by reading reviews and checking consumer websites.

Beware of phishing emails – If you receive an email with an amazing offer, it may contain a link to a fake website. If a deal looks too good to be true it often is. Instead of clicking the link, search for the website instead, following the link in the search results.

Use secure payment methods – Only make payments with reputable and known sellers. Fraudsters will try and coerce you away from official payment channels. Use payment services like a credit card or PayPal as most give you online purchase protection.

Don’t give away too much detail – Only provide mandatory details on websites when making purchases – you should not need to provide security details.

If you think you've been scammed, contact your bank immediately to get it blocked. If you have lost money, tell your bank, and report it as a crime to Action Fraud on 0330 123 2040 or actionfraud.police.uk.