More than half of Britons are not bothered about internet banking fraud, according to a new survey by Lloyds TSB.

Some 51 per cent are not concerned, with many believing that little can be done to prevent it. Around two fifths say they are not bothered because they say their bank will reimburse them.

As well as this, only a fifth think they understand fully how to stay safe on the net, and nearly a quarter (24 per cent) believe they could be better informed about online security.

The statistics shows the growing need for IT support and IT helpdesk services, because more and more businesses and individuals are relying increasingly on online banking.

"Internet fraud is an issue no one can afford to ignore and it is by no means a victimless crime," said Ian Larkin of Lloyds TSB.

"Its impact stretches far beyond the customer whose money is taken and the bank it is taken from, with the proceeds often used to fund other more serious crime around the world."

He suggested that those using online banking use good passwords and regularly update the security of their PCs.