Insufficient security checks and the complexity involved in taking online payments are leaving small firms exposed to payment processing fraud, the Forum of Private Business is warning.

Accepting card payments online is an increasingly important source of revenue for small firms but many business owners have little or no experience of the contractual processes that can be involved.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is warning taxpayers to be vigilant following reports that thieves are making phone calls pretending to be the taxman.