That's the latest word from Prospectiv, a provider of online customer acquisition solutions, which surveyed consumers online for the first time as they experienced a recession, says president/CEO Jere Doyle. "I guess we had one in 2000 for a little bit but, especially for middle or lower income consumers, now we have Internet penetration."

Of those polled, 84% said they have changed their shopping habits due to concerns about a possible recession. Rising fuel prices, fears about the real estate market and consumer debt topped consumer's list of concerns.

What are consumers doing differently?

• • 66% are logging more hours online researching and comparing brands and prices

• • 74% would welcome more online offers, coupons and e-newsletters from their favorite brands and products

• • 79% already are or expect to dine out less frequently

• • 60% are more likely to sign up/join a website or online community that offers recipes, healthy meal ideas, cooking tips and savings they can use at home

"People are using more coupons, looking for ways to save, tips, e-newsletters, online offers," says Doyle. "Seventy-nine percent are dining out less frequently so they're looking for healthy meal ideas." Even among the 15% of respondents who said they do not fear a possible recession, 30% reported that concerns about fuel costs, the housing market and consumer debt have affected their shopping habits. In fact, 40% of this group have increased their online bargain hunting and 50% said they'd welcome more e-newsletters, online coupons and offers.