A recent survey of more than 2,400 web users has found that Britain is becoming a nation of angry online shoppers.

The report, commissioned by MoreComputers.com, found that 93 per cent of UK users are annoyed by 'sneaky' website charges. 

Hidden delivery charges provoke the most anger, with 64 per cent saying they would not buy from sites engaging in the practice.

The growing practice of so-called 'philfing' describes online stores holding back the real cost of 'extras' until the last minute.

Brian Trevaskiss, operations manager at MoreComputers.com, said: ''Shopping online is without doubt quick and convenient. But this growing trend of 'philfing' is so annoying for consumers that they abandon their baskets and shop elsewhere.''

The research reveals that 'free delivery' tariffs that only apply with an extra purchase or spending over a certain amount frustrate consumers immensely, as do hidden surcharges for paying by credit card.

Online shopping comparison sites are now finding it increasingly difficult to maintain a level playing field when listing prices, according to the research.

''We carefully monitor merchants for any signs of illegitimate or misleading behaviour,'' said Justin Sedgmond, merchant relations director at PriceGrabber. 

''When we are made aware of any suspicious activity, we verify the problem and take appropriate action. We will contact the merchant, and solve the problem to make sure our customers are protected.''

Other irritating online shopping listed on Philfing.info include:

• Poor stock information
• The lack of contact telephone numbers and the use of 0870 telephone numbers
• Sites that make no mention of a delivery fee until you get to the shopping basket
• Sites that say delivery is free then charge for 'packaging and handling'
• Sites that do not make any mention of a credit card surcharge then take an extra two per cent at the submit order stage
• Budget airlines that charge extra for checking in luggage
• Train ticket sites that charge extra for ticket insurance
• No indication whether prices include VAT
• Free delivery that turns out to be free only when you buy more than one item
• Credit card handling charges that state £2 then turn out to be £2 per person, per flight