Two Thirds of Consumers Fear ID Fraud When Shopping Online

London, October 2013 According to the latest research from Ukash, the online cash payment provider, two thirds (64%) of shoppers worry about the risk of card or ID fraud when shopping online. This figure rises to 73% among consumers aged 65+ years with 99% of people in this age bracket checking bank statements regularly to reduce the risk of fraud. David Cox, Head of Customer Experience, Ukash, believes that e-retailers need to offer more flexible payment methods to help their customers feel safe online.

Our research confirms that there is a high level of consumer fear about fraud when shopping online but this can be reduced by retailers extending their payment methods, explains David Cox. Over half of respondents (69%) regularly check their bank statements for any unusual activity and 66% will only shop online with secure websites.

While it is great that consumers are taking these extra precautions to protect themselves when shopping online, retailers can help to reduce this risk by offering various ways for their customers to shop online. By offering consumers safer ways to pay online, with cash methods such as Ukash, retailers are empowering cash consumers in the online world and further extending their own business opportunities.

With Ukash, online shoppers can convert their cash into a unique 19 digit code which can then be used to pay directly for goods and services on the thousands of websites that accept Ukash transactions worldwide. This offers consumers a convenient and secure way to shop online without having to give any personal financial information.

The latest research from Ukash coincides with National Identity Fraud Prevention Month and the Dont let it be you campaign. The initiative, set up by a taskforce of organisations from the public and private sector, is urging head of households to be aware of the impact of personal identity fraud. Individuals who want tips and advice on how to prevent identity fraud can visit www.dontletitbeyou.com.

Ukash has also joined forces with leading police authorities and anti-malware partners to launch www.avoidonlinescams.net. The hub offers internet users up-to-date news, tips and advice on the latest online scams, including links to instructions and free software to remove ransomware.

Online retailers are at risk of ignoring the cash shopper and those who have concerns about their safety online, continues David Cox. These are still very important customers who bring significant businesses to online retailers if they extend their online payment facilities.

*Ukash Online Payments Survey- August 2013- 1015 respondents