The most recent survey conducted by Accenture has found that 83 percent of shoppers are expected to spend the same amount of money or less than they did in 2009, and many have turned to online shopping. for convenience and savings.

Last year, 64 percent of consumers said that they would shop online. but, in 2010, that number has rose to 69 percent, indicating that shopping online is still rapidly growing in popularity.

Many shoppers are also looking for deals - 93 percent of those polled said that they would be looking for discounts and deals and only 13 percent said that they would be willing pay premium prices for gifts.

Free shipping was listed as the biggest incentive for shoppers who were looking for gifts online.

Privacy and security fears seemed to weigh heavily on consumers who favored online shopping.. A quarter of those surveyed said they were reluctant to shop online. due to these concerns.

Those who are looking for deals on the internet, but are cautious about privacy issues, may want to consider using a secure online payment service, which can protect a shopper's sensitive data and information.