SHOPPERS have been warned about new fraud check rules which could mean their cards are declined.

The change will be implemented from Monday (March 14), meaning consumers will have to verify their identity when shopping online.

It's designed to crack down on digital fraud, as more Brits than ever are shopping online.

When shopping online, you'll be asked for another form of ID when you check out, such as a password, one-time passcode or fingerprint.

For example, your card issuer or bank might send you a passcode via text or call your phone when you're trying to make a purchase.

If you can't provide authentication, the transaction could be blocked after March 14.

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It was supposed to be implemented last year but the deadline was extended to give retailers longer to prepare.

UK Finance, the industry group for banks, said: All non-compliant transactions [will be] declined after the 14 March deadline".

Some retailers already have these measures in place as they were rolled out from June last year and were ramped up in January.

Make sure you're ready to provide extra information to verify yourself, to reduce the chance of your purchase being blocked.

For example, you should check that your phone is charged and has signal when you're online shopping.

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How to protect yourself when shopping online

Fraud has become a major issue for online shoppers, and new scams are being invented all the time.

To minimise your risk, ensure that your bank has up to date contact details for you, including your phone number and email address.

If you need more information about how you might need to confirm your identity, you should contact your bank.

Remember that your bank or retailer will never contact you out of the blue to ask you for your PIN, full password or to move your money to another account.

Only give out your personal or financial details to organisations you are expecting contact from and that you trust.

If you're not sure about who is contacting you, ignore the text or hang up the phone.

You can call your bank back directly using the number on the back of your card to make sure you're not speaking to a scammer.

To stay safe from online fraud you should make sure your phone or computer is protected by anti-virus software.

You should always log off after shopping online, especially if you've been using a shared computer.

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If you're making a purchase double-check that there is a locked padlock symbol in the corner of the address bar, as that means your information is secure.

Online scams surged during the coronavirus pandemic.

Make sure you're clued up on the most common cons so you can avoid being tricked.

Can you tell the difference between a genuine message and a scam? Take our test to find out.

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