PEOPLE are being urged to watch where they spend their cash this Christmas, as fraudsters get ready for their most profitable time of the year.

Research by TSB revealed only 26 per cent of consumers could identify a fake or ‘phishing’ website.

Ashley Hart, head of fraud at TSB, said: “Remember, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is. Treat an electronic payment like you would cash. Don’t send one to somebody you don’t know and trust. Always use a trusted website.

“Only buy gift cards from a reputable retailer, or direct from the company they’re for.”