European card fraud losses for 19 European countries reached a notable EUR 1.55 billion in 2013.

"UK experienced GBP 450 million in losses, the highest level since 2008 and both France and Greece had higher ratios of fraud losses to card sales, at 7 basis points (.07%). The fastest growth of card fraud losses in Europe occurred in Russia, where losses jumped nearly 28% since 2012."

"The UK and France suffered 62% of the total fraud losses for the 19 countries in the fraud map, reflecting their higher rates of card usage, which make them targets for criminals. 10 of the countries saw a rise in fraud compared to 2012, while 9 stayed the same or saw reduced losses."

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Half of customers who shop online blames the retailers for security issues.

"24% of those surveyed either experienced or saw a family member experience being on the wrong side of a fraudulent online transaction."

"43% of shoppers think to change passwords every 3 to 6 months, and 69% use different passwords at different websites."

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We are delighted to announce that Dr Jane Staley has joined the board here at Bridge Community Farms. Dr Staley is chief executive officer at Groundwork Cheshire. As a registered environmental charity, Groundwork Cheshire has over 30 years of experience working with partners to deliver successful community and education based projects across Cheshire & Warrington. Thank you Jane for joining us and sharing your expertise to help BCF.

The government has unveiled new principles aimed at tackling "ridiculous" delivery charges faced by shoppers in remote parts of the UK.

"They set out best practice for businesses such as couriers, online retailers and delivery firms. UK ministers believe they will lead to customers being charged a fair delivery price. The principles include making information about costs available up front when people are buying online."

"It comes after research from 2012 showed at least one million people in Scotland faced additional charges for delivery, had their parcels delayed or were even refused delivery altogether."

"Delivery charges should be clear up front, so people can decide to shop elsewhere if they feel the charges are excessive. Retailers need to get this right for shoppers across the whole of the UK and especially consider how they can best serve their customers in rural and island communities."

"For online retailers, too, transparent and equitable delivery charges mean fewer abandoned shopping carts and repeat custom."

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More than 70% of mobile consumers shop online.

"Nearly half of mobile users (48%) made purchases online regularly, and 1 in 5 customers browse products online before buying in stores."

"In some countries mobile has become the most dominant shopping channel. In the Asia-Pacific region mobile leads the way for shopping, as more of the population turn to mobile as their primary device. A third (32%) shop with their mobiles compared to a fifth (21%) who shop via their computers."

More info here.