Internet users are being urged to exercise caution when making online donations to charitable causes, such as today's Children in Need appeal.

Security firm Webroot Software warned that users must be extra vigilant to avoid exposing personal information to cyber-criminals.

Webroot stressed that it does not want to discourage people from donating to worthy causes, but to make sure that the donation reaches the intended recipient.

"We are seeing increases in spoofing and typo-squatting around events driving traffic on the web," said Nick Banks, managing director in EMEA for Webroot.

"Internet users need to think about protection and good habits when surfing online for information or donating.

"Cyber-criminals are targeting heavily trafficked websites, and donors seeking to contribute to worthy causes must use caution when visiting these sites."

Children in Need fundraising activities have been taking place throughout the year, but the televised events today will prompt many people to visit related websites with the intention of donating.

Webroot said that a potential spike in system monitors and key-loggers allows hackers to obtain personal information such as credit card or bank account numbers.

The company also recommends that users ensure that security software is up to date, look for the padlock symbol on the browser when entering private information, and check bank accounts regularly for unexpected transactions.

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