Any small businesses in IT operating a sales initiative over Christmas stand to make a lot of money, according to the leading internet auction website.

A representative for eBay said that more people are turning to the online market to buy their wares over the holiday period.

"eBay believes there are three factors which are crucial to increased online sales: selection, value, and trust," she explained. "People shop online because they can access a far wider selection of goods more conveniently than on the high street."

Furthermore, the expectation for improved service to shops on the high street is natural for most spenders, the spokeswoman added, though despite the internet being a largely safe and fun place to shop, people must "remain vigilant" and take steps to stay protected online.

It follows a survey earlier this month by eBay, which discovered that 51 per cent of online businesses expect a stronger Christmas in 2009 than 2008, ordering more stock to match demand.

More than half of small businesses (53 per cent) believe that the most important benefit of outsourcing is guaranteed response times for IT support. London-based Connect conducted the research in 2007.