NatWest introduces new online banking feature and free software to 'empower customers'

"When it comes to buying online, use your MasterCard or VISA to pay, or carefully follow the scam advice on auction sites such as eBay and Gumtree will help you avoid falling victim."

When it comes to giveaways, many can be keen to try their luck at being picked.

However, sharing personal and financial information when entering could potentially mean it ends up in the wrong hands, the bank warned.

"Don’t give away your personal and bank details too easily," said NatWest.

"Criminals use online competitions or offers of free shopping vouchers as a way of harvesting information from their next victims."