For many credit card holders trying to keep out of the red can be very difficult, but in the past having to make a conscious effort to go out and hit the shops in order to go on a spending spree was the one saving grace of many shopaholics, as it reduced the chances of them spending money that they couldn’t afford because they actually had to go to a fair amount of effort to do it.

However, the increasing popularity and ease of internet shopping could be the undoing of those that cannot resist making purchases despite a potentially dire financial situation. In fact, many officials are concerned that online shopping could lead to a further increase in debt levels for people that may already be struggling with credit card debt.

A report was released recently by Sainsbury’s Finance, and officials from the firm said that consumers’ love of online shopping could mean that in the near future more and more people could end up having to seek help with their credit card debts. This time of year, in particular, can be difficult, as many people go online to get Christmas gifts and then end up spending more than they planned to by making unplanned purchases. This is something that a number of debt management firms are also concerned about according to reports.

Kevin Still, director of Atlantic Financial Management, said: “The Internet offers a very cost effective way of buying essential household expenditure items, but there is sometimes a temptation to use a credit card instead of a debit card because of concerns over purchase protection and sometimes just convenience. This can lead to credit card debts building up if not properly budgeted for.”