CHRISTMAS shoppers have been warned to think about safety and security when shopping on Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Thames Valley Police said research by internet security awareness organisation Get Safe Online (GSO) showed £16.5m was lost by businesses and individuals last Christmas due to fraud, up from £9.5m in 2013.

Black Friday, which will take place this coming Friday, and Cyber Monday, which will take place on Monday, November 30, see many stores and websites offer big discounts for a limited time.

But police warned the sales were an opportunity for criminals to target shoppers.

The force said people should trust their instincts when shopping, warning that if an offer looks too good to be true then it probably is.

Shoppers were also advised to stick to trusted websites and by wary of clicking on links in emails that could lead to a scam site.

People using public WiFi to do thier shopping have been warned against entering personal payment details to make an online purchase and to ensure they have up-to-date security installed on their computers.

The force also recommended using a credit card or PayPal for added security.

People sticking to a more traditonal form of shopping have been warned against leaving purchases on display in their cars and to be aware of distraction techniques criminals may use to try and steal their belongings.

Det Ch Supt Ray Howard said: "When it comes to online crime, an event like Black Friday or Cyber Monday presents an opportunity for criminals to target victims who may have their guards down.

"Shoppers are advised to remain vigilant and take precautions to ensure they do not fall victim to online fraud or theft, whether it’s this weekend or in the run-up to Christmas.”