Most UK banking customers feel that they are pushed too hard into taking out Payment Protection Insurance, research has revealed.

New research from Moneyfacts.co.uk has found that 53% of consumers feel their bank has been too pushy when trying to sell insurance with a loan or credit card.

Emma Butler, moneyfacts.co.uk editor, said: “Payment protection insurance can be a valuable insurance for some consumers and is something that should be considered when taking out a loan or credit card.

“However, providers encourage staff to cross-sell this product as part of the personal loan application process as it is extremely profitable and a great source of revenue. This leads providers to be ‘pushy’ when selling rather than considering the needs of the consumer.”

She added that people should not be forced into taking out these products, but if they did decide that they needed such cover, they should shop around.

She said: “Standalone products are available from the likes of britishinsurance.com and paymentcare which can often be much cheaper and more flexible.”