Competition and Fair Trading Commission (CFTC) has tipped consumers to take caution, especially when dealing with online festive purchases.

CFTC Executive Director, Lloyds Vincent Nkhoma, has issued the warning as the festive season is about to hit a climax.

Nkhoma has told the consumers to be vigilant since some of the traders masquerade as legitimate businesses, but harbour intentions to mislead or defraud consumers.

The commission has therefore advised consumers to avoid following unfamiliar social media adverts and sites and ensure they verify addresses before making any transaction.