60 % of British consumers paid online for purchases that were never delivered

According to Consumer Focus, over 60 % of British consumers who didn't receive goods or services they paid for in advance had shopped online, says Consumer Focus. Research by the consumer group revealed that just under two million Brits have paid for goods or services which have never materialized after suppliers went into liquidation as a result of the recession. Thus, the average loss per customer is US$400 (£242).

The electrical goods, music and small entertainment sectors were the worst performing, each accounting for 15 % of all losses. They were closely followed by fashion and clothes, which made up 12 % of paid-for purchases that have never materialized.

Markets expert at Consumer Focus Steven Brooker said: "Consumers are losing out in the fight to reclaim money from bankrupt businesses. And the problem looks set to worsen given the dramatic rise in companies going under this year. As with many things during a recession, it's the poorest who will be hit hardest."