Research from the life assistance company released in time for Scams Awareness Month, which begins on Monday February 1, revealed that 70 percent of Brits have been targeted with bogus pleas for money via email and the web.

Furthermore two thirds have been told they've won an online competition only to find it was a sham.

Sarah Blaney, fraud expert from life assistance company CPP, says: "Scams Awareness month is a good opportunity to remind consumers that card and identity fraudsters are always developing new and sophisticated ways to get their hands on personal information".

"With the World Cup starting in June and the ballot for the 2012 Olympics opening, 2010 promises to be a bumper year for fraudsters and scammers. We urge all consumers to be vigilant, ensure the validity of their purchases and be careful who they hand their personal details to."