A consumer group claims there are big savings to be had for shoppers who buy their insurance over the internet.

Which? Money said the cost of home, car and travel cover can be cut by up to 26% if surfers look to the web for discounts.

The organisation found individual firms also offer people a reduced rate if they buy the products online rather than over the telephone.

The Post Office will knock 17% off its car insurance when the application is made through the website rather then the phone, while Cornhill offers a 15% discount.

Which? said more than half of its readers have bought insurance on the internet, and 94% of those polled said they found it easy or very easy.

Nearly half of those questioned said they purchased insurance online because it was cheaper, while 78% said it was quicker or more convenient.

Two-thirds of people also said they look for insurance over the internet so that they can compare deals from different companies.

Martyn Hocking, editor of Which? Money, said: "As well as being quick and easy, there are big savings to be had buying insurance online.

"Don't just automatically head for your usual insurer's website, though - try others, too, to make sure you get the best deal."

The findings come as a separate study found young people are being "bullied" into taking out payment protection insurance.

Claims website PortalClaims.com said 5% of people aged under 30 have been pressurised into taking out one of the policies.

The product covers repayments on loans or credit cards if the holder is unable to work due to accident or illness, or loses their job.

Research for the firm found 41% of people who took out the cover with a loan believed the insurance was a condition of their deal.

Tim Moore, managing director of PortalClaims.com, said: "It is a shame to see the younger generation being caught on their heels when it comes to taking out these insurance policies.

"This is the age group that is frantically saving up for Christmas, for holidays, for rent even, and it is this group that is consistently paying through the nose for unsuitable PPI."

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